Fearing possible law and order problem in certain areas of Wokha town due to issue between the Wokha Town Baptist church (WTBC) and the three Independent Churches, the district magistrate (DM) Wokha has imposed prohibitory order under Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) in several localities of the town with immediate effect and would remain in force till September 28, 2021.
In an order, DM Wokha, Orenthung Lotha, stated that there was apprehension and reports of intimations and clashes, which were likely to vitiate the peaceful atmosphere in certain localities. DM also said that there was every reason to believe and apprehend that grave situation, which could endanger human life and property as well as breach of public peace and tranquility was likely to be created at any moment arising due to issue.
DM also said there was apprehension that there was every likelihood of creating tension between section of people, which will disturb public peace.
Further, DM said it has been found expedient to promulgate a prohibitory order under Section 144 Cr.PC to maintain law and order in all the localities, which fell within 100metre, perimeters of the Church apartments/ residential buildings under the jurisdiction of the three Lotha Baptist churches at Saron Colony, Vungoju Colony and NST Colony.
Therefore, the DM has promulgated prohibitory order under section 144 Cr.P.C in the said areas in Wokha town. DM has ordered that an assembly of five or more persons would be declared as an “unlawful assembly”. Further, carrying of any dangerous weapons like fire arms, stick, knives, spears, sword, and any other lethal weapons etc, has been prohibited.
DM cautioned that anyone found contravening the order within the said locations would be arrested and penalised according to the provision of law.
However, movements of magistrates on duty, police, security forces and medical/health services have been exempted.