Mumbai Police Ban Assemblies of Five or More People From July 23 to August 6
The Mumbai Police on Monday, July 20, 2026, imposed prohibitory orders banning the assembly of five or more people in public places across areas under the jurisdiction of the Commissioner of Police of Mumbai. The restrictions, aimed at preventing breaches of peace and disturbance to public tranquillity, will take effect from 12:01 a.m. on July 23, 2026, and remain in force until midnight on August 6, 2026.
The order was issued by Deputy Commissioner of Police (Operations) Akbar Pathan under the Maharashtra Police Act. In addition to banning public gatherings, the directive prohibits processions, the use of loudspeakers and amplifying instruments, musical bands, and the bursting of crackers in processions.
According to police officials, the decision was based on information from various sources indicating a likelihood of breach of peace, disturbance of public tranquillity, and grave danger to human lives and property.
The order provides several exemptions to avoid disrupting daily life and essential activities. Marriage ceremonies, funeral gatherings, and related processions are excluded from the ban. Statutory meetings of companies, clubs, and cooperative societies, as well as routine business gatherings of clubs and associations, are also exempt.
Public entertainment venues, including cinema halls and theatres, are allowed to host assemblies. Furthermore, the restrictions do not apply to official work at courts, government offices, and local bodies.
Educational institutions, including schools and colleges, can continue academic activities. Factories, shops, and other commercial establishments are also exempt to allow normal trade and business to proceed. Other specific assemblies and processions may be permitted if they receive prior authorization from respective zonal DCPs and their supervisory officers.
The Mumbai Police stated that the order will be promulgated by displaying copies at prominent public places, courts, and government offices, as well as through public announcements and media.
Violators of the restrictions may face legal action. The order notes that legal proceedings or investigations regarding violations committed during the enforcement period can continue even after the restrictions lapse on August 6, and penalties may still be imposed.
The announcement follows recent public demonstrations in Maharashtra. On Sunday, July 19, 2026, large rallies took place in several parts of the state, including Mumbai, Nagpur, and Nashik. The march in Mumbai was led by Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena chief Raj Thackeray.
