KOTLI (Kashmir English): The Kotli district administration of Azad Jammu and Kashmir has imposed a complete ban on the use, sale, purchase, and flying of drones and quadcopters (Drones/Quadcopters) throughout the district to maintain public safety and law and order.
The order issued by District Magistrate Kotli Waqar Ahmed Raja said that it has been observed that people are using drones or quadcopters to take photographs and make videos during various political, social, and cultural events.
The notice stated that these devices can fall into the wrong hands during public events or gatherings and pose a threat to national security.
According to the administration, some elements can use these devices for illegal, dangerous, or terrorist activities, which can affect the law and order situation and endanger public life and property.
According to the District Magistrate, in order to ensure public safety and maintain law and order, a complete ban is being imposed on the sale, purchase, use, and flying of drones and quadcopters. This ban has been imposed under Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code, 1998.
The order further states that legal action will be taken against those violating this order under Section 188 of the Criminal Procedure Code, 1860. According to the notice, this order has come into effect from October 13, 2025, and will remain effective for a period of two months, i.e., 62 days.
District Magistrate Waqar Ahmed Raja clarified that the purpose of this decision is to protect public life and property and ensure peace and order.
Copies of the order have been sent to the Chief Secretary, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Muzaffarabad, Deputy Commissioner, Senior Superintendent of Police, Superintendent of Police Rural, all Sub-Divisional Magistrates, all Police Station In-charges, and Information and Broadcasting Departments for awareness and implementation.
The decision is effective immediately, and the district administration has appealed to the public to ensure its full implementation so that law and order are maintained.
