After Army alert, Baramulla administration bans drones

SRINAGAR: Baramulla district administration Monday imposed a complete ban on flying drones in the north Kashmir district until October 31, after intelligence inputs gathered by the Army indicated the possible smuggling of unmanned aerial devices (UAVs) into Kashmir Valley and their potential usage against security forces and vital installations in the upcoming festive season.

The Army’s infantry division, in a September 24 communication, had alerted Baramulla authorities about their apprehension and advised prohibiting drone flying in the district, Baramulla Deputy Commissioner (DC) Minga Sherpa (IAS) stated in his order.

The DC took up the issue with the SSPs of Baramulla and Sopore district, who expressed similar concerns and recommended issuing restrictions to regulate or suspend all non-essential UAV operations in Baramulla as a precautionary measure.

After considering the same, the DC issued an order under BNSS Section 163 (threat to public safety), prohibiting drone flying by any individual, event hosts, or organisations in Baramulla.

Drone operations by security forces, CAPF units , or govt departments for official purposes were exempted from the ban, provided prior information was shared with the district administration, police and the Army’s 19 infantry division, the order stated.

Last month, J&K Police had issued a similar advisory in south Kashmir, instructing individuals, institutions, media personnel, and event organisers to seek advance permission before operating drones. Police had warned that any unauthorised flying would attract strict action under relevant legal provisions, and the equipment may be seized.