NOIDA: Following the Union government’s decision to revoke the special status of Jammu and Kashmir, the district administration asked residents to maintain peace and law and order.

Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) was also imposed in the district in view of upcoming

festivals

of Bakrid, Janmashtami and

, along with government competitive

. The section, which will be in place for two months, prohibits rioting, protesting or any other gathering that may disturb law and order.

“There are always some anti-social elements who try to disturb the peace. We are just trying to be cautious. It is a routine procedure,” said district magistrate B N Singh.

The state government has also cancelled all pre-approved leaves and asked officials to join work immediately. Officials said that these precautions are being taken to counter any repercussions or communal disharmony that may follow the Centre’s decision.

Meanwhile, residents in Noida and Greater Noida welcomed the government’s decision and celebrated by distributing sweets.

“Now people of Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh will have equal rights like other Indian citizens. Anyone from any part of India will be able to purchase or invest in property, which will make doing business easier. Women will also enjoy equal rights. I hope this will bring peace, development, improved financial conditions and better education and healthcare facilities to the Valley,” said S K Jain, the president of Sector 18 Market Association.

A K Kaul, a resident of Sector 34, spent half his life in Srinagar and had to leave his home and property in the early 1990s. He lived in various cities before settling in Noida 10 years ago. He said the decision would benefit people of J&K more than anyone else. “For years, people there have been alienated and disconnected from the country and haven’t been able to reap the benefits of what being a part of India entails. This is a historic move that will bring peace and development to the state,” said Kaul.

Harinder Bhati. who lives in Greater Noida, said, “While some people may have a problem with this decision, it is a move towards unifying the country.”