POONCH, November 6, 2025 : District Magistrate Ashok Kumar Sharma (JKAS) on Thursday imposed a complete ban on the sale and use of firecrackers across District Poonch with immediate effect, citing serious security concerns.
According to the order, the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Poonch had reported that during the ongoing marriage season, the bursting of firecrackers—especially during late evening and night hours—could cause confusion among Army and security forces, potentially hampering their ability to respond swiftly to any terror-related or firing incident in the border district.
Taking note of these concerns, the District Magistrate has invoked Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) to enforce the ban. The order aims to prevent any situation that may lead to misjudgment or delay in operational responses by security forces stationed in sensitive areas.
The directive instructs Sub-Divisional Magistrates (SDMs), Tehsildars, CEO Municipal Council Poonch, EO Municipal Committee Surankote, and the District Information Officer to ensure wide public awareness of the ban. This includes announcements through print and electronic media, public address systems, and drum beating in markets and residential areas to inform citizens about the prohibition.
The District Magistrate emphasized that the order was issued ex-parte, given the urgent nature of the security situation, and will remain in force until further notice.
Furthermore, the DM warned that any violation of the order would invite strict legal action under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023.
The administration has appealed to the public to cooperate in the interest of public safety and security, particularly in view of the sensitive security scenario prevailing in the region.
