In a coordinated move across Uttar Pradesh, district administrations in Ayodhya, Muzaffarnagar, Mathura, Meerut, and Bijnor have imposed sweeping bans on unauthorized drone operations, following Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s directive to tighten surveillance and prevent misuse of aerial technology.
According to local officials, the crackdown coincides with a rise in instances of circulating bogus videos, spreading rumors, and creating a general panic due to suspicious drone activities.
Ayodhya Expands Ban Beyond Temple Complex
Previously confined to the area surrounding the Ram Janmabhoomi complex, drone restrictions in Ayodhya have now been extended district-wide. District Magistrate Nikhil Tikaram Funde, invoking BNSS Section 163, announced the ban alongside SSP Gaurav Grover at a press briefing on Monday.
“Suspicious drone activity has been reported from multiple districts. This could potentially aid criminal activity or incite fear among citizens,” the DM said. Only security agencies and police are exempt from the ban. Private drone operators—including photographers, media, or wedding organizers, will now need prior written permission.
No Tolerance for Tech-Driven Misinformation
The decision follows a high-level virtual meeting chaired by CM Yogi Adityanath on Sunday, where data revealed 17 FIRs and 29 arrests in connection to drone-related fake videos and social media rumours.
“Technology must not be misused,” the CM said. “Any attempt to create fear through drones will attract strict action, including provisions under the Gangsters Act, and if required, the National Security Act.” He further directed police to step up foot patrols, work with village security committees, and seize illegal drones immediately.
Muzaffarnagar Steps Up Enforcement
Echoing the CM's stance, Muzaffarnagar DM Umesh Mishra issued a complete ban on all unauthorized drone activity. “No drone is to be flown without advance approval. Spreading rumours using drones or social media will not be tolerated,” he stated.
At least 20 people have been arrested in the district, and security has been ramped up in 177 sensitive villages, according to officials.
Mathura and Bijnor Issues Advisory Despite No Incidents
While no drone-related incidents have been reported in Mathura so far, SSP Shlok Kumar appealed to residents to exercise caution and avoid spreading unverified content. “Flying drones without notifying the local police is discouraged. Action will be taken against those forwarding fake visuals or misinformation,” he said.
In Bijnor, District Magistrate Jasjit Kaur confirmed a ban on drone use without permission, even for private events like weddings. SP Abhishek Jha noted that recent panic was caused by toy helicopters mistaken for drones, leading to FIRs under BNSS Section 170. All drone users in the district must now undergo registration and verification.
Meerut Reaffirms State Drone Policy
DIG Kalanidhi Naithani of the Meerut Range reminded the public of the Drone Surveillance and Security Policy 2023, emphasizing that standard operating procedures (SOPs) must be followed. “There are clear policies in place. Any breach, especially those causing panic or spreading misinformation, will invite strict consequences,” he said.
The increasing crackdown reflects a growing consensus among officials that drone misuse is not just a privacy issue but a public safety threat. From false alarm incidents to video fakery, local authorities are now treating unauthorized drone use as a law-and-order issue.
