Section 144 Imposed in Hyderabad : In an unprecedented move aimed at ensuring peace and public order during the Lok Sabha elections, Hyderabad has come under the ambit of Section 144. The decision, announced by Hyderabad Commissioner of Police Kothakota Sreenivas Reddy, was made in strict adherence to the guidelines set forth by the Election Commission on June 8, 2023. This significant measure underscores the authorities’ commitment to maintaining tranquility in Hyderabad and Secunderabad as the city gears up for the forthcoming electoral battle.
Section 144 Imposed in Hyderabad Ahead of Lok Sabha Polls: A Comprehensive Overview
Understanding the Implications of Section 144
Section 144, a critical component of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC), empowers authorities to issue orders in the public interest that may prohibit the assembly of four or more individuals in an area. Under this provision, the following restrictions have been imposed in Hyderabad until June 6, to ensure the smooth conduct of the elections:
- Prohibition on Carrying Licensed Arms: Residents are banned from carrying licensed arms throughout the election period. This measure is aimed at preventing any form of violence or intimidation.
- Suspension of New Arms Licenses: The issuance of new arms licenses will be on hold till the conclusion of the Lok Sabha election 2024.
- Ban on Display of Arms: Any form of arms display during political rallies or gatherings in support of candidates is strictly prohibited, ensuring a violence-free election.
Lok Sabha Election 2024: Hyderabad’s Electoral Landscape
The Lok Sabha elections in Hyderabad, set against the backdrop of these stringent measures, promise to be a keenly watched affair. As part of Telangana, which boasts a total of 17 seats, Hyderabad’s political dynamics are especially intriguing. In the 2019 elections, the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS, formerly Telangana Rashtra Samithi or TRS) clinched nine seats, while the BJP secured four, and the Congress bagged three. The All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) chief Asaduddin Owaisi retained the party’s sole seat from the Hyderabad Lok Sabha constituency with a significant margin.
Asaduddin Owaisi’s victory in 2019, with 58.95% of the votes, beating BJP’s Bhagavanth Rao by a margin of two lakh votes, highlights the political allegiance of the Hyderabad electorate. This was not a one-off event; back in 2014, Owaisi had secured 52.94% of the vote, maintaining a similar margin. These statistics not only underline Owaisi’s stronghold in Hyderabad but also hint at the critical battles that lie ahead in the 2024 elections.
The Road to the Lok Sabha Elections 2024
The political arena is buzzing with activity as parties have begun releasing their candidate lists, some even before the official announcement of the polls. The strategic declarations of candidates across phases reflect the nuanced approach parties are adopting to consolidate their positions. With Hyderabad voting alongside the rest of Telangana in the fourth phase of the General Elections on May 13, and the counting of votes slated for June 4, the political temperature in the city is set to rise.
This year’s election is not just about the battle for seats but a reflection of the vibrant democracy and the diverse political ideologies that coexist in Hyderabad. The imposition of Section 144, while a measure to ensure peace, also highlights the significance of the electoral process in maintaining the democratic fabric of society.
As Hyderabad stands on the cusp of another electoral showdown, the coming weeks are poised to be a testament to the city’s political fervor and the democratic spirit of its people. With the authorities leaving no stone unturned to ensure a fair and peaceful election, the Lok Sabha polls 2024 are set to be a landmark event in Hyderabad’s rich political history.
FAQs: Section 144 in Hyderabad Ahead of Lok Sabha Elections 2024
1. What is Section 144?
A: Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) authorizes the government to prohibit the assembly of four or more people in an area.
2. Why was Section 144 imposed in Hyderabad?
A: It was imposed to maintain public order and peace during the Lok Sabha elections period.
3. Until when is Section 144 in effect in Hyderabad?
A: The restrictions under Section 144 will remain in force until June 6.
4. Can residents carry licensed arms during this period?
A: No, carrying licensed arms by residents is banned throughout the election period.
5. Will new arms licenses be issued during this period?
A: No, the issuance of new arms licenses is suspended till after the Lok Sabha election 2024.
6. Are there any restrictions on political rallies?
A: Yes, any display of arms during political rallies or gatherings is strictly prohibited.
7. When is Hyderabad scheduled to vote for Lok Sabha elections 2024?
A: Hyderabad will vote on May 13, in the fourth phase of the General Elections.
8. When will the Lok Sabha election 2024 votes be counted?
A: The counting of votes is scheduled for June 4.
9. How many seats does Telangana have in the Lok Sabha elections?
A: Telangana has a total of 17 seats in the Lok Sabha elections.
10. Who won the Hyderabad Lok Sabha constituency in the 2019 elections?
A: AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi won the Hyderabad Lok Sabha constituency.
11. What was Asaduddin Owaisi’s vote percentage in the 2019 elections?
A: Owaisi won 58.95% of the votes in the 2019 elections.
12. Are political parties allowed to campaign during this period?
A: Yes, but any form of arms display during the campaigns is prohibited, and they must comply with the rules under Section 144.
13. How does Section 144 affect the general public?
A: It primarily restricts large gatherings and the carrying of arms to ensure public safety and order.
14. Can gatherings for non-political purposes proceed?
A: Any gathering of four or more people is prohibited under Section 144, regardless of the purpose, unless specific permissions are obtained.
15. What should residents of Hyderabad do if they need to organize an event?
A: Residents should seek approval from the local authorities and ensure their event does not violate the restrictions under Section 144.
16. How are political parties reacting to the imposition of Section 144?
A: Political parties are adjusting their campaign strategies to comply with the restrictions and ensure peaceful elections.
17. Will the Lok Sabha elections be affected by Section 144?
A: The elections will proceed as scheduled, with additional measures in place to ensure they are conducted smoothly and peacefully.
18. How can residents stay informed about the rules under Section 144?
A: Residents should follow official communications from the Hyderabad Police and the Election Commission.
19. What happens if someone violates the restrictions under Section 144?
A: Violators can face legal action, including arrest and prosecution under the relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).
20. Why is maintaining peace important during elections?
A: Ensuring a peaceful environment is crucial for the fair and free conduct of elections, allowing citizens to exercise their democratic rights without fear or coercion.
ALSO READ : Lok Sabha Elections 2024 : Key Highlights and Schedule Revealed
