With farmers’ organisations calling for a shutdown and road blockade on October 31 at the Hattargi toll plaza, similar to their previous protest, the district administration has imposed restrictions on protests and traffic blockades across the district. The farmers are demanding the fixation of sugarcane prices and fulfilment of other demands.
Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Roshan issued prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, following a communication from the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and a police report.
The order prohibits protests, rallies, sit-ins and roadblocks on all National Highways, including NH-48. Blocking entry and exit points or disrupting operations at the Hirebagewadi, Hattargi and Koganolli toll plazas is also prohibited. Parking tractors or other vehicles in groups to obstruct traffic is not permitted.
The restrictions also prohibit damage to public property and obstruction of emergency services, including ambulances and fire engines. The Police Commissioner and Superintendent of Police have been directed to ensure strict enforcement. The administration clarified that peaceful expression of demands is not prohibited, provided public traffic and essential services are not disrupted.