Police Regulations Under Chapter IV from sections 33 to 46 of the Maharashtra Police Act 1951

Police Regulations

Chapter IV from sections 33 to 46 of the Maharashtra Police Act 1951 deals with Police Regulations.

(1) Rule-Making Authority:

(a)     Government officials like the Commissioner, District Magistrate, and Superintendent of Police have the power to create and modify rules.

(b)     These rules serve various purposes, such as controlling traffic, issuing licenses for specific activities, and maintaining public order.

(c)     Importantly, these rules must align with existing laws.

(d)     Some rules require prior public notice and publication to ensure transparency.

(e)     Additionally, these rules cannot permit activities like the sale, manufacture, or transportation of alcohol or intoxicating drugs without the necessary legal permits.

(2) Dance Performances:

(a)     Certain venues like restaurants, permit rooms, and bars are prohibited from hosting dance performances.

(b)     Any existing licenses for dance performances in these places are invalidated.

(c)     Violating this prohibition can lead to penalties, including imprisonment and fines.

(d)     However, there is an option for individuals or establishments to appeal these penalties and seek reconsideration.

(3) Exemptions from Dance Ban:

Some types of venues, including theaters, cinemas, auditoriums, and sports clubs, are exempt from the ban on dance performances. This means they can continue to host dance shows, even if there is a general prohibition in other places.

(4) Street Barriers:

The Commissioner and Superintendent of Police have the authority to set up temporary street barriers to conduct vehicle checks. The purpose of these barriers is to ensure that vehicles and drivers comply with the law, promoting safety and security on the roads.

(5) Dead Body Disposal Rules:

Competent authorities have the responsibility to establish rules for the respectful disposal of deceased individuals. These rules consider local customs and practices to ensure that the disposal methods are culturally sensitive.

(6) Public Behavior Orders:

Authorities can issue orders to regulate public behavior during gatherings, processions, and other public events. These orders are intended to maintain order and prevent disturbances in public spaces.

(7) Prohibited Acts:

Authorities have the right to prohibit certain activities, such as carrying weapons, possessing corrosive substances or explosives, and creating disturbances. Violating these prohibitions can result in the confiscation of prohibited items.

(8) Noise Control:

The Commissioner or Superintendent of Police can issue orders to prevent excessive noise, music, or disturbances caused by loudspeakers or musical instruments. They also have the authority to modify or revoke these orders if necessary.

(9) Riot Prevention:

In situations where there is a risk of riots or disturbances, authorities can temporarily close or take control of buildings or places to prevent such events. Compensation may be provided to lawful occupiers if they experience substantial losses due to these preventive measures.

(10) Order at Religious Events:

Authorities can issue orders to guide the conduct of participants in religious or ceremonial events to prevent disruptions and maintain order. These orders must be reasonable and respect legal rights and established practices. They can also be subject to court decisions and must be publicly announced.

(11) Police Powers at Public Places:

Senior Police Officers have the authority to issue directions at public places, amusements, or public meetings to prevent disorder or danger. The public is required to obey these directions, and police have free access to these places to enforce them.

(12) Miscellaneous:

In addition to the above points, there are also rules and measures in place to address various other situations, such as dealing with stray dogs, managing sick or unfit animals, and preventing epidemics at large gatherings.

Written By :  Harshavardhan Prakash Deshmukh,

B.A.LL.B. :  Modern Law College, Pune

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