PNS | Vijayawada
The NTR District Police has issued a stern warning of legal consequences for those intending to participate in the ‘Vidyut Soudha Muttadi’ and ‘Maha Dharna’ protest organised by the Andhra Pradesh Power Employees Struggle Committee on August 17.
NTR District Police Commissioner, Kanthi Rana Tata, announced on Tuesday that participation in the upcoming ‘Vidyut Soudha Muttadi’ and ‘Maha Dharna’ protest on August 17, organised by the Andhra Pradesh Power Employees Struggle Committee, would be met with legal action. The police have not granted permission for the protest to take place.
Commissioner Tata emphasised that Section 144 Cr PC, as defined by Section 30 of the Police Act, is currently in effect within Vijayawada city limits.
Therefore, permission for the planned dharna has been denied. Furthermore, due to the essential nature of the Electrical Department’s services, the ESMA (Essential Services Maintenance Act) remains in effect.
Citing Government Order RT No 54, the Andhra Pradesh government has invoked the ESMA Act across all Electricity Transmission Corporations, including APEPDCL, APSPDCL, APCPDCL, and AP GENCO. These orders, effective since May 10, have prohibited protests and strikes for a duration of six months.
The police have cautioned that individuals participating in the dharna would face severe consequences under the ESMA Act. Violators of the prohibition order may also face prosecution under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code, including Sections 143, 427, 452, 283, 341, 506, 120(B), and the Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act.
Commissioner Tata expressed concern over potential disturbances during the protest, citing the possibility of outsiders engaging in violent behavior. In light of this, the police have intensified surveillance measures in Vijayawada, deploying personnel equipped with CCTV cameras, drone cameras, and videography equipment. Additionally, increased police patrolling will be implemented, and thorough inspections of vehicles entering Vijayawada are planned.
