Hapur, Uttar Pradesh: Amid rising public anxiety and a flurry of rumors regarding drone sightings, the Hapur district administration has declared the area a ‘Red Zone’, placing stringent restrictions on drone usage and public gatherings until October 7, 2025.
Taking the matter seriously, District Magistrate Abhishek Pandey and Superintendent of Police Kunwar Gyananjay Singh have personally taken charge of the situation. The decision follows directives from the state government after the matter reached the Chief Minister’s office.
Drone Rumors Spark Panic, Security Heightened
According to officials, several unverified reports of drone activity have surfaced across different locations in the district. This has created an atmosphere of fear and unrest, with residents reportedly reacting aggressively to unknown individuals in public spaces.
To control the situation and prevent any law-and-order issues, Section 163 has been invoked, effectively banning the use of drones by any individual or organization without prior approval.
Garhmukteshwar, a prominent religious town in the district, has been marked as a highly sensitive zone, and special police patrols have been deployed to monitor the area.
Tough Measures Against Misinformation and Assemblies
The District Magistrate stated that spreading false or misleading information—whether via social media, internet, or electronic means—about drone activity will invite strict legal action. Public gatherings of five or more people in public places have also been prohibited unless written permission is obtained.
Furthermore, no public events or meetings will be allowed without prior approval from district authorities.
Group Admins Held Accountable for Rumors
SP Kunwar Gyananjay Singh issued a stern warning to social media group administrators, stating that group admins will be held responsible if any member spreads false or inflammatory content.
“If any misleading message, video, or rumor is shared, the group admin must immediately inform the local police or relevant officials. Failure to do so will result in action against both the individual and the admin,” said Singh.
Senior Officials Present
The press briefing was attended by Chief Development Officer Himanshu Gautam, Additional District Magistrate Sandeep Kumar, SDM Ela Prakash, and other key district officials, reflecting the seriousness with which the administration is tackling the issue.
