Pune police officials said Monday that there is no city-wide curfew in place despite rumors circulating on social media.
The clarification aims to prevent public panic and dispel misinformation regarding movement restrictions in Pune and the neighboring Pimpri-Chinchwad municipal area. These rumors had suggested a lockdown lasting 14 days [2].
The Pune Police Commissioner said, "People can move freely" [1]. While general movement is permitted, the city is currently under special prohibitory orders. These measures are designed to curb criminal activity and prevent public disorder at late-night gathering spots.
As part of these enforcement efforts, police are cracking down on illegal hawkers and unauthorized eateries. Authorities said that these specific establishments must close by 10 p.m. [1]. This directive targets vendors operating without proper permits who often contribute to congestion and security vulnerabilities during night hours.
Officials said that the focus remains on maintaining public order rather than restricting the liberty of the general population. The crackdown on late-night illegal vendors is intended to reduce the risk of crime in areas where crowds typically gather after dark.
Residents are urged to rely on official police communications rather than unverified social media posts. The authorities said that the special prohibitory orders are distinct from a curfew and do not prohibit the movement of citizens.
“"People can move freely"”
This situation highlights the tension between urban security enforcement and the rapid spread of misinformation. By distinguishing 'special prohibitory orders' from a 'curfew,' the Pune police are attempting to maintain a security perimeter around illegal commercial activity without triggering the economic and social paralysis associated with a full lockdown.
