Kashmir’s Baramulla district bans use of drones Till October 31 Following Army's Alert

Last Updated:October 13, 2025, 22:33 IST

Baramulla DM Minga Sherpa bans all drone flying in Baramulla till October 31 after Army and police warn of possible drone misuse during Diwali, especially in sensitive areas.

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The District Magistrate of Baramulla has enforced a complete ban on the flying of drones in the district until October 31, following security concerns regarding potential drone smuggling in Kashmir and their misuse to target security forces and vital installations during the festive season, such as Diwali.

An order accessed by CNN News18 reveals that the District Magistrate, Minga Sherpa, acted after receiving intelligence inputs and formal requests from Army and police authorities.

The DM cited a communication from headquarters 19 Infantry Division expressing concerns that drones could be used for unlawful activities, including attacks on security forces, particularly as public gatherings increase during the festivals.

“Whereas, HQ 19 Infantry Division C/o 56 APO vide their communication No: 10112/2/GS

(Int) Dated 24-09-2025 has requested to prohibit drone flying in District Baramulla till 31-10-2025 in view of some inputs with regard to smuggling of drones in Kashmir Valley and apprehension of their utilisation against SF/Vital areas in the upcoming festive season," the order reads.

Supporting the military’s request, the Senior Superintendent of Police Baramulla also expressed concerns and urged the administration to regulate or suspend all non-essential drone operations within the district.

The directive, issued under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita 2023, prohibits the flying of drones by any individual, event organiser, or organisation in Baramulla district with immediate effect and will remain in force till the end of October.

Drone operations conducted by security forces or any Government Department for official purposes must be communicated to the District Administration, Police, and the army division guarding the border well in advance.

The areas of Baramulla, mainly LoC area of Uri, are militarily sensitive and have seen cross-border activities and infiltration attempts by terrorists.

All executive magistrates and district police have been directed to ensure strict implementation of the order.

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