Srinagar, Apr 27: Authorities in Kishtwar district have imposed a ban on the sale, stitching, and storage of army uniforms and combat-pattern dresses in a bid to curb their misuse by anti-national elements and terrorists.
The order, issued by Deputy Commissioner Rajesh Kumar Shavan, cites the threat posed by subversive groups as an imminent danger to public safety, peace, and security, necessitating immediate preventive action.
Under the new regulations, all authorized private firms and shops involved in procuring, storing, or selling combat clothing must notify their nearest police station in writing within 15 days of the order’s issuance, confirming their authorization to operate.
“Furthermore, these firms are required to submit fortnightly reports detailing all sales of combat or khadi clothing, including the particulars of the Army, Paramilitary, or Police personnel to whom such items are sold. Dealers must maintain a proper register of these transactions, which must be made available for inspection by competent authorities,” it said.
The order says sales should be restricted strictly to bona fide members of the armed forces, with dealers verifying the buyers’ identity and recording their names and units.
“Inspections of these registers can be carried out by a Tehsildar, Executive Magistrate First Class, or a police officer of the rank of Assistant Sub-Inspector or above. Any violation of the order will invite strict punitive action,” it added.
