The District Magistrate of Fazilka, Amarpreet Kaur Sandhu, has issued a set of restrictions across the district under provisions of the Indian Citizen Security Support Act, 2023 (section 163), equivalent in effect to Section 144 of the CrPC. The orders, announced on 2 January 2026, will remain in force until 28 February and aim to strengthen public safety and prevent unlawful assemblies.
Fazilka district restrictions and key measures
The orders impose several specific prohibitions. Restaurants and hookah bars are not allowed to serve hookah to customers. Night-time and early-morning washing of cattle is banned across the district to prevent gatherings that could lead to public disorder. Government buildings and water tanks have been identified as vulnerable assets and departmental officers have been instructed to ensure round-the-clock duty by staff, guards or watchmen to deter any attempts at unlawful demonstrations or interference.
Authorities have also placed a blanket ban on the purchase, sale and use of civilian items that resemble military attire and military-style vehicles within Fazilka’s boundaries. The district administration has prohibited the sale, purchase and use of barbed wire or similar products for unauthorised purposes in the district. In addition, the use, sale and storage of “China door” components commonly associated with kite flying have been restricted in a bid to reduce accidents and hazards related to kite strings.
Environmental safety measures form part of the orders as well. The district has prohibited the manufacture and use of certain thin plastic envelopes—those below 50 microns in thickness and of specified small dimensions—along with a ban on discarding such plastic in public places and sewage systems. These moves are presented as efforts to limit environmental pollution and prevent blockages in drainage and public infrastructure.
Enforcement and legal consequences
The restrictions apply throughout Fazilka district, including its group of villages and municipal council areas. The district administration has warned that violations will attract strict legal action. Persons found breaking the orders may be proceeded against under Section 188 of the Indian Penal Code for disobedience to an order duly promulgated by a public servant, in addition to other applicable provisions.
Local officials have been tasked with implementing the directives and coordinating security arrangements. The requirement for 24-hour deployment of personnel at sensitive sites is intended to provide a continuous deterrent against any coordinated attempts to disrupt public order or damage infrastructure.
Impact and guidance for residents
The measures will affect hospitality operators, traders of restricted items and citizens who take part in customary activities such as early-morning cattle washing. Businesses that normally offer hookah service will need to suspend that service for the duration of the orders. Residents are advised to follow the directives and co-operate with local authorities to avoid penal action.
For further clarification, affected individuals and businesses should contact the Fazilka district administration or their local municipal offices. The district magistrate’s orders are presented as precautionary security steps to maintain public order and protect infrastructure while they remain in effect until 28 February.
Key Takeaways:
- Fazilka district magistrate issues orders under 2023 security provisions, effective until 28 February.
- Hookah service in restaurants and hookah bars is prohibited; night-time cattle washing and sale of military-style items are also banned.
- Authorities will deploy 24-hour duty staff to guard government buildings and water tanks; violators face action under Indian law.
- Restrictions include bans on barbed wire sales, certain kite components and thin plastic envelopes to curb public hazards.
