The Chandigarh administration has intervened to halt a controversial "iPhone langar" event, citing significant public safety concerns and a clear violation of legal restrictions. The proposed gathering, organized by Amritsar-based businessman Rakesh Trehan, aimed to distribute high-end iPhones as religious offerings, but authorities feared a potential stampede.
Organizer's Ambitious Plan
Rakesh Trehan, known on social media as "Raja D King," had announced plans to give away iPhone 17 and subsequent models as "prasad" in Chandigarh and Mohali. The event, initially slated for September 22, quickly drew official scrutiny due to its potential to attract massive crowds.
Official Intervention and Safety Concerns
Chandigarh Deputy Commissioner Nishant Yadav issued a direct order to the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) to prevent the event. Yadav highlighted previous instances, like a "free petrol langar" by the same individual, which posed similar risks to public safety.
"I have just asked the Senior Superintendent of Police, UT, to stop him from doing this in Chandigarh. Such gatherings are not allowed. Last time too, he had announced a free petrol langar, and it is risky as people can gather in thousands and there can be a stampede. Such iPhone langars will be banned in Chandigarh," Yadav stated.
Legal Grounds for Prohibition
Chandigarh SSP Kanwardeep Kaur confirmed that no permission had been sought for the proposed event. She emphasized that holding such a gathering without official approval would constitute a violation of Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), which empowers magistrates to issue orders in urgent situations to prevent danger or disturbance to public safety.
Mohali Administration's Warning
The adjacent Mohali administration also issued a stern warning against the event. Mohali SSP Varun Sharma clarified that no information about an authorized "iPhone langar" had been received, and no such program would be permitted without explicit approval from the Deputy Commissioner’s office. Sharma added that any attempt to organize the event without permission would lead to legal action.
Understanding BNSS Section 163
Section 163 of the BNSS grants magistrates the authority to issue orders in critical situations involving potential danger, public nuisance, or disturbance. It allows authorities to restrict gatherings or activities when deemed necessary to avert harm. Violations of orders issued under Section 163 are addressed under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), with penalties varying based on the nature and impact of the breach.