Drone operations banned across Baramulla district till October 31

STC NEWS DESK
BARAMULLA, OCTOBER 13 (STC): The District Magistrate Baramulla, Minga Sherpa (IAS), had ordered a complete ban on drone flying across the district till October 31, 2025. The ban has been imposed amid intelligence inputs suggesting possible smuggling of drones into Kashmir Valley and their potential misuse against security forces and vital installations during the upcoming festive season.
According to Order No. 59-DMB (PS) 2025, issued under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, the prohibition follows a request from the Headquarters 19 Infantry Division C/o 56 APO, which had sought the ban citing serious security concerns.
The Army’s communication highlighted credible inputs regarding drone smuggling and potential hostile use, prompting the civil administration to take immediate preventive action.
According to the reports, the Magistrate sought inputs from both the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Baramulla and SSP Sopore, who supported the move and recommended temporary suspension of all non-essential drone and UAV operations as a precautionary measure to ensure public safety during the festive period.
“Now, therefore, after considering the concerns mentioned herein above, I, Minga Sherpa (IAS), District Magistrate, Baramulla, in exercise of the powers vested in me under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, do hereby prohibit drone flying by any individual(s), event host(s), or organization(s) in District Baramulla forthwith, till 31-10-2025,” the order reads.
However, drone operations by Security Forces (SFs), CAPF units, or Government Departments for official purposes are exempted, provided prior information is shared with the District Administration, Police, and HQ 19 Infantry Division.
The District Magistrate has directed all Executive Magistrates and Police authorities to ensure strict enforcement of the order and to initiate action against violators under relevant laws.

(Inputs KDC / Straight Talk Communications)