JAMMU, Jan 8: Night curfew has been implemented along the International Border (IB) in Samba district of Jammu and Kashmir, as per an official order, to enhance the control of the Border Security Force (BSF) and prevent illicit activities near the borderline.
The decision aims to counter cross-border infiltration and the smuggling of weapons, particularly through drones, in the challenging and foggy weather conditions prevailing along the Indo-Pak border. District Magistrate Abhishek Sharma issued the order on Sunday, specifying that civilians are prohibited from moving within a one-kilometer strip from the IB in Samba district between 9 pm and 6 am.
The order, invoking Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code, was enacted to facilitate BSF troops in their duties effectively. The directive originated from a district-level standing committee meeting where BSF authorities recommended a nightly curfew to enhance their operational capabilities.
The order emphasized the need for regulated movement in border areas to ensure better area domination by the BSF and thwart any malicious intentions by entities posing a threat to Indian security. Individuals requiring movement during curfew hours must present their identification cards to BSF and police authorities.
Violation of the order will result in legal consequences, and the order, effective immediately, is set to remain in force for two months from its issuance unless withdrawn or rescinded earlier.
