Leh/Kargil, May 08: The District Magistrates of Leh and Kargil of the Union Territory of Ladakh have issued strict prohibitory orders against the operation of drones and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) within their respective jurisdictions, citing credible security threats and the risk of misuse by anti-national elements.
In Leh, District Magistrate Santosh Sukhadeve, IAS, invoking Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, has imposed an immediate and indefinite ban on the flying or use of drones by locals, tourists, or any private individuals.
According to the order, anyone witnessing unauthorized drone activity is urged to report it to the Police Control Room at 60060280847, the Emergency Response Support System (ERSS) via Dial 112, or the nearest police or civil authority. Violators will face strict legal action under relevant laws.
A similar directive has been issued in Kargil by District Magistrate Shrikant Balasaheb Suse, IAS, also under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023. Based on inputs from the Superintendent of Police, Kargil, the order bans all drone operations by tourists and private individuals until further notice.
Residents and visitors in Kargil have been advised to report any drone sightings to the Police Control Room at 9541902331, Dial 112, the Emergency Operation Centre at 01985-295052, or local police authorities.
In a media briefing, Deputy Commissioner/CEO Leh Santosh Sukhadeve (IAS) and Additional Superintendent of Police Leh Regzin Sandup (JKPS) addressed the public about the ban, emphasizing the importance of community vigilance. They urged residents to remain alert, report any suspicious aerial activity, and assured that sufficient stocks of essential commodities are in place to avoid panic or disruption.
