Pune: Prohibitory Orders Imposed in Pune District Ahead of ZP, Panchayat Samiti Polls

Pune, 3rd February 2026: Ahead of the upcoming Zilla Parishad and Panchayat Samiti general elections, Pune District Collector and District Magistrate Jitendra Dudi has issued preventive prohibitory orders under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) to ensure a peaceful and fair electoral process. The restrictions will remain in force across the district until February 9, officials said.

The orders impose several restrictions on political parties, candidates, their representatives, and supporters during the campaign period.

Printing of sample ballot papers by political parties, candidates, printing press owners, or publishers has been brought under regulation. Protests, rallies, demonstrations, and hunger strikes linked to electioneering have been prohibited at government and semi-government offices, rest houses, public places, and on roads.

Authorities have also barred the installation of posters, banners, pamphlets, cut-outs, hoardings, and arches for campaign purposes if they obstruct traffic or pose safety risks.

Campaign convoys have been limited to a maximum of 10 vehicles per candidate or political party. The use of loudspeakers is permitted only with prior approval from police authorities.

Loudspeakers cannot be operated before 6 am or after 10 pm, whether on vehicles or at public venues. Announcements using loudspeakers must be made from stationary locations and are not allowed from moving vehicles. Political parties and candidates are required to inform the District Magistrate and election authorities about permissions obtained for loudspeaker use.

Guidelines for Campaign Materials-
Display of party flags or cloth banners on vehicles is allowed only on vehicles officially authorised by election authorities. Campaign materials such as flags, banners, posters, and painted slogans cannot be placed on private property, buildings, or walls without the owner’s consent and approval from the competent authority.

Officials have warned that strict legal action will be taken against anyone violating the prohibitory orders. The administration said the measures are intended to maintain law and order and ensure that voters can participate in the elections without fear, disruption, or undue influence.