In the run-up to the highly anticipated T20I match between India and Bangladesh, Gwalior’s district magistrate has issued prohibitory orders to ensure peace and law and order in the region. The orders, effective until October 7, come in the wake of a call for a ‘Gwalior Band’ by the Hindu Mahasabha on the day of the match, October 6, and other ongoing protests by various organizations.
The decision was taken by District Magistrate and Collector Ruchika Chauhan on the recommendation of the Superintendent of Police (SP), citing concerns over public unrest and the potential for communal tensions. The ban aims to prevent any inflammatory protests and the circulation of provocative material, especially on social media.
According to officials, the right-wing Hindu Mahasabha had earlier staged a protest demanding the cancellation of the cricket match. Their grievances are rooted in recent incidents of alleged atrocities against Hindus in Bangladesh, which led to violent demonstrations and political upheaval in the neighboring country in August. The organization has been vocal in calling for heightened awareness of these events during the cricket match.
The SP emphasized that various groups were planning processions, demonstrations, and even effigy burnings to protest the match. The circulation of objectionable content on social media, including pictures, videos, and inflammatory messages, was also noted as a serious concern. These activities, officials said, could potentially incite communal tensions and disrupt the harmonious atmosphere of the city.
To curb such activities, prohibitory orders are in place, which will prohibit gatherings of more than five people, particularly if they are armed with sharp or blunt weapons, firearms, or inflammable substances such as petrol and acid. The administration has also banned the display of banners, posters, cut-outs, or any other materials with inflammatory or objectionable content within the district. Public demonstrations, including effigy burnings, will not be allowed during this period.
Security arrangements for the match, which will be held at the Madhavrao Scindia Cricket Stadium after a 14-year hiatus, are also being ramped up. Over 1,600 policemen will be deployed for security and traffic management around the stadium. Authorities are also keeping a close eye on social media platforms to ensure that no provocative content goes viral that could disrupt the match or the public order.
The 1st T20I match of the India-Bangladesh T20I series is expected to draw a large crowd, as the Gwalior stadium is hosting an international cricket event for the first time since 2010. With heightened security and prohibitionary measures in place, the district administration aims to ensure that the match proceeds smoothly without any untoward incidents.
The prohibited orders will remain in effect until the match concludes on October 6, with local authorities promising swift action against anyone attempting to violate the restrictions.
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