PNS | Vijayawada
The NTR District Police in Vijayawada have warned that they will take legal action against anyone who participates in the Maha Dharna protest of the Andhra Pradesh Power Employees JAC and other Electricity Unions on August 8.
Police Commissioner Kanthi Rana Tata said that the police have not given permission for the protest and that there is a possibility that some outsiders may join the dharna and commit violence. He added that 2,000 police personnel will be deployed in the city to ensure strong surveillance and police patrolling.
Tata also said that Section 144 of the CrPC and prohibitory orders are in force in the city under Section 30 of the Police Act. He added that the Essential Services Maintenance Act (ESMA) is also in force and that the electrical department is an essential service.
The Government of Andhra Pradesh banned protests and strikes in all Electricity Transmission Corporations, the three transmission companies of the said Electrical Transmission Corporation, APEPDCL, APSPDCL & APCPDCL, and AP GENCO under the ESMA Act on May 10 for six months.
Tata warned that anyone who participates in the Maha Dharna will be prosecuted under the ESMA Act, as well as Sections 143, 427, 452, 283, 341, 506, 120(B), R/W 149 of the Indian Penal Code and the Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act. They will also face strict action under section 3 and departmental disciplinary action as per Andhra Pradesh Conduct Rules.
The Police Commissioner appealed to the people to cooperate with the police and not to participate in the Maha Dharna. He said that the protest is illegal and that the police will take all necessary action to maintain law and order.
