Amit Shah’s Chandigarh visit: No-fly zone for drones and UAVs on December 19 and 20

The Chandigarh administration has declared the entire Union Territory a no-fly zone for drones and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) on December 19 and December 20. The decision has been taken in view of Union home minister Amit Shah’s visit and stay in the city on December 19.

The order has been issued to ensure the safety of the visiting VVIP as well as the general public. Authorities said the step is necessary because of growing security threats and recent incidents involving the misuse of drones.

Security reasons behind the ban

According to an official release issued by the Union Territory administration, the decision to ban drones and UAVs is linked to emerging security concerns. Officials pointed out that in recent times, anti-national elements have used drones fitted with improvised explosive devices (IEDs) to carry out or attempt terrorist activities.

Because of these threats, the administration said it was important to regulate the use of drones during the visit of the Union home minister. The ban is meant to prevent any possible danger and ensure a safe environment for both the VVIP and residents of Chandigarh.

District magistrate Nishant Kumar Yadav issued the order using the powers given to him under Section 163 of the Bhartiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023. Under this order, no person is allowed to fly drones or UAVs anywhere in Chandigarh on December 19 and 20.

The order applies to all areas of the city, including residential zones, commercial areas, and open spaces. Officials said that strict monitoring will be done to ensure that the ban is followed properly.

The administration said that such preventive measures are common during high-level visits and are taken only for a limited period. The aim is to reduce risks and allow security agencies to focus on their duties without any disturbance.

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Penalties and exemptions

While the ban is strict, the order clearly mentions certain exemptions. Law enforcement and security agencies are not covered under this restriction. This includes the Chandigarh Police, paramilitary forces, the Indian Air Force, and Special Protection Group (SPG) personnel involved in the security arrangements.

These agencies may use drones if required for official and security purposes. However, all other individuals, organisations, and private operators must strictly follow the ban during the two-day period.

The administration has warned that anyone found violating the order will face legal action. Violators can be punished under Section 223 of the Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023. This section deals with disobedience of orders issued by a public servant. Other relevant legal provisions may also be applied, depending on the nature of the violation.

Officials urged citizens to cooperate with the administration and security forces. They advised drone operators, photographers, and hobbyists to avoid flying drones during the restricted period.

The administration also appealed to event organisers and commercial establishments to inform their staff and clients about the ban. This is to ensure that no one violates the order unknowingly.

Amit Shah is expected to attend official programmes during his visit to Chandigarh. Security arrangements have been tightened across the city, and multiple agencies are working together to ensure smooth movement and safety.

Residents may notice increased security checks, road restrictions, and police presence during the two days. Authorities have requested the public to remain patient and follow instructions issued by security personnel.

The drone ban is a temporary step and will be lifted after December 20. Officials said normal drone operations can resume once the order expires, subject to existing rules and permissions.

The Chandigarh administration said public safety remains its top priority. It added that such precautionary steps are necessary in the present security environment and are taken in the larger interest of citizens and national security.

The administration concluded by stating that cooperation from the public is essential to ensure a peaceful and incident-free visit.