In a move aimed at safeguarding critical infrastructure and ensuring public safety, the administration of the Union Territory of Ladakh has imposed a blanket ban on the use of drones and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) by tourists and civilians.
A decision in this regard was taken amid credible inputs suggesting the potential misuse of such aerial platforms for anti-national activities.
In Kargil, District Magistrate Shrikant Balasaheb Suse issued an order under Section 163 of the Bhartiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, prohibiting the operation of any kind of drone or UAV within the district.
As per officials, the order was issued following a request from the Superintendent of Police, citing threats to the safety of security installations and the general public.
Citizens have been accordingly directed to report any unauthorized drone activity to police or emergency control rooms, and violators will face strict legal action.
Similarly, in Leh, District Magistrate Santosh Sukhadeve has enforced an immediate ban on the flying and operation of drones, citing credible intelligence inputs and heightened security concerns.
“The move is aimed at preventing the misuse of drones by anti-national elements and ensuring the safety of sensitive areas in the region,” officials said.
The administration has warned that any violations will invite stringent legal consequences.
