Belagavi bans highway road blocks by sugarcane farmers

Sugarcane farmers and youth groups in Belagavi cannot block National Highway 48 or stop traffic at local toll plazas during their planned Saturday protests. Deputy Commissioner and District Magistrate Mohammad Roshan issued a prohibitory order on Friday to stop the planned road blockades.

Background

Earlier this month, protesting farmers parked tractors near Hattargi to block the highway, which caused trouble for commuters and goods vehicles. The new order cites Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) 2023. The Pune-Bengaluru highway is a major inter-State route linking Maharashtra and Karnataka.

Restrictions

The strict rules ban sit-ins, rallies, road blockades, and parking vehicles horizontally across carriageways or service roads. People cannot block entry and exit points at the Bankapur, Hirebagewadi, Hattargi and Kognoli toll plazas. The order also bans stopping ambulances, fire engines, school buses, and other emergency or essential vehicles.

Enforcement

The Superintendent of Police for Belagavi District, the Belagavi City Police Commissioner, Tahsildars, and Executive Magistrates must enforce the order and ensure smooth traffic. Anyone who breaks these rules will face legal action.

Context

District administrations often use prohibitory orders under legal codes like the BNSS to prevent major traffic disruptions on key national highways. These measures aim to balance the right to protest with public safety and the smooth movement of emergency services.