Manipur Tightens Security: Drones Banned in Churachandpur Before PM’s Visit

Ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s proposed visit to Manipur, the District Magistrate of Churachandpur has issued a prohibitory order declaring the entire district as a 'No Drone Zone' to strengthen security arrangements.

In an order issued by Dharun Kumar S., District Magistrate, Churachandpur, restrictions have been imposed on the use of drones, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), balloons, and any form of aerial photography or videography devices. The order was passed under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, citing potential threats to law and order during the high-profile visit.

The directive clearly states that only aerial devices approved by the government will be allowed to operate. Any violation of the order will invite strict legal action under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, along with other relevant provisions of law.

The Prime Minister is expected to visit Manipur as part of his outreach to review the ongoing security and rehabilitation measures in the state. His visit comes more than two years after ethnic violence broke out in Churachandpur and other districts, displacing thousands of people who continue to live in relief camps. The Centre has been pushing for peace and rehabilitation while simultaneously strengthening law and order mechanisms in the affected areas.

Officials said that the security blanket around Churachandpur has been significantly tightened, with restrictions on aerial movements being one of the key preventive measures. The District Magistrate also noted that due to the emergent nature of the situation, the order was passed ex-parte without prior notice to concerned individuals, and will remain in force until further orders.