Kerala Police issues strict guidelines for local election victory celebrations

Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala Police has warned of strict legal action if election victory celebrations cross permissible limits, issuing detailed guidelines for election-related events ahead of the vote counting day.

The police said it will be the responsibility of political party leaders to ensure that their cadres strictly follow the instructions during victory celebrations. Authorities have also directed that children must not be involved in any form of victory celebrations.

The guidelines were finalised at a meeting chaired by Malappuram Deputy Superintendent of Police (DySP) K M Biju, which reviewed security arrangements and crowd management measures for celebrations on counting day.

Addressing the meeting, the DySP said victory celebrations must be conducted within the framework of the law and in a manner that does not cause inconvenience to the general public. Organisers have been instructed to inform the concerned station house officer (SHO) in advance before holding any celebratory event.

Police said victory celebrations will be permitted only until 6 pm on Saturday. Any announcement vehicles or musical instruments found in use beyond the stipulated time will be seized and legal action will follow.

Authorities have also banned the use of off-road vehicles and bike stunts in victory rallies. Celebrations or the bursting of firecrackers are strictly prohibited in front of the residence of a defeated candidate, party offices, or the homes of political leaders. Police warned that violations will attract cases under non-bailable sections of the law.

Party leaders, including those who have switched parties, contested as independents, or faced candidates from their own localities, have been advised to exercise restraint and avoid provocative celebrations or confrontations.

The police further warned that strict action will be taken against social media administrators if messages, reels or posts that defame, threaten or provoke hatred against winning or defeated candidates, their families or organisations are circulated online.

Celebrations that block roads or disrupt public traffic will not be permitted. Police had also directed that flagpoles, banners, posters and election-related graffiti must be removed by 3 pm on Friday.

Key police guidelines for election celebrations

• Do not organise staged events in public places.
• Do not damage campaign boards or flagpoles of other political parties.
• Do not use loudspeakers without legal permission.
• Do not exceed permitted sound frequency limits.
• Do not handle explosives, including firecrackers and fireworks, irresponsibly.
• Strict action will be taken against noise pollution caused by modified vehicles or reckless driving.
• Ensure the smooth movement of essential services, including ambulances.
• Do not organise demonstrations that block roads.
• Avoid provocative slogans, announcements or displays that threaten religious harmony or social cohesion.
• Ensure the presence of responsible party leaders during rallies and events.
• Conduct events only at approved locations and within approved time limits.