Agartala, 2nd May 2026: In view of the upcoming vote counting for the 56-Dharmanagar Assembly by-election, the District Administration of North Tripura has imposed prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023 to ensure smooth and peaceful proceedings.
The order, issued by District Magistrate & Collector Chandni Chandran, will come into effect from 6 AM on May 4, 2026, and remain in force until the completion of the counting process.
As per the directive, counting of votes will take place at Dharmanagar Government Girls’ Higher Secondary School starting from 8 AM. To maintain law and order, a 100-meter radius around the counting centre has been declared a “Pedestrian Zone.”
The key restrictions imposed: Movement of all vehicles, including two-wheelers and rickshaws, is strictly prohibited within the designated 100-meter zone; Carrying of weapons or weapon-like objects such as sticks, rods, stones, or any potentially harmful items is banned; and Public gatherings, rallies, meetings, and use of loudspeakers within the restricted area are not allowed.
The administration clarified that these measures are aimed at ensuring peace, security, and a free and fair counting process, in line with the guidelines of the Election Commission of India.
The order will not apply to: Counting personnel, police, CAPF, and officials on election duty; Authorized counting agents and media persons with valid passes; and Government officials and routine administrative services.
Strict enforcement has been directed, with police and security forces deployed to maintain order. Any violation of the order will attract action under relevant provisions of the BNSS, including Section 223.
The district administration has also instructed officials to widely publicize the order to inform the general public and political stakeholders ahead of the counting day.
