Prior permission mandatory for protests and rallies, says Ranchi Deputy Commissioner
Ranchi Deputy Commissioner Manjunath Bhajantri has issued new mandatory guidelines requiring prior permission for all protests and rallies in the city. The order aims to maintain public order, safety, and traffic flow while acknowledging the constitutional right to peaceful assembly.
Why it matters
This policy highlights the ongoing tension between maintaining public order and protecting the constitutional right to protest in India.
Following student protests regarding the ongoing Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) and Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission (JSSC) issues, Ranchi Deputy Commissioner Manjunath Bhajantri on Sunday (August 23, 2026) issued detailed guidelines for protests and rallies, making it mandatory to obtain prior permission from the competent authority.
Posting on the social media platform X, Mr. Bhajantri said, “It is often observed that various sit-ins, protests, encirclements, processions, rallies, and public meetings are being organised at different locations, where sometimes the administration is not provided with prior necessary information. Due to such events, not only law and order and public safety but also traffic arrangements can be affected, causing difficulties in commuting for ordinary citizens”.
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