In anticipation of the T20 cricket match between India and Bangladesh scheduled for October 6, Gwalior’s district magistrate has implemented prohibitory orders to ensure peace and security. These measures will remain in effect until October 7, following calls for a “Gwalior bandh” by the Hindu Mahasabha, which is demanding the match’s cancellation due to alleged “atrocities” against Hindus in Bangladesh.
The right-wing organization staged protests earlier this week, claiming that the match should not proceed given the recent violent unrest and political changes in Bangladesh. In response, district magistrate Ruchika Chauhan issued the prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bhartiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), which replaced the British-era Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) earlier this year.
According to officials, the Superintendent of Police recommended these orders due to ongoing demonstrations, processions, and effigy burnings organized by various groups. The SP noted that social media was being used to incite communal sentiments and spread inflammatory content, threatening social harmony.
Under the prohibitory orders, any individual attempting to disrupt the match or provoke religious tensions via social media will face legal action. Additionally, the display of banners, posters, or other materials containing inflammatory language is strictly prohibited.
The administration has also banned demonstrations and effigy burning in both public and private spaces. Gatherings of five or more individuals, as well as the carrying of weapons or incendiary substances within a 200-meter radius of any buildings, are prohibited. The upcoming match at the Madhavrao Scindia Cricket Stadium marks Gwalior’s first international cricket event in 14 years, prompting heightened security measures. Approximately 1,600 police personnel will be deployed to manage security and traffic during the event.