Delhi Police bans drones, UAVs, paragliders ahead of Independence Day celebrations
New Delhi, July 31
Delhi Police has prohibited the flying of drones, UAVs, quadcopters, paragliders, para-motors, hang-gliders, microlight aircraft, remotely piloted aircraft, hot air balloons and other sub-conventional aerial platforms across the National Capital Territory from August 2 to August 16 as part of heightened security arrangements for the Independence Day celebrations.
According to an order issued by Delhi Police Commissioner Anurag Kumar under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, intelligence inputs indicate that criminal, anti-social elements or terrorists inimical to India may pose a threat to the safety of the general public, dignitaries and vital installations by using such aerial platforms.
The order prohibits flying of para-gliders, para-motors, hang-gliders, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), unmanned aircraft systems (UASs), microlight aircraft, remotely piloted aircraft, hot air balloons, small-sized powered aircraft, quadcopters and para-jumping from aircraft over the jurisdiction of the NCT of Delhi during the notified period.
The restrictions have been imposed under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, and violation of the order will attract action under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, the order said.
The order comes into effect from August 2, 2026, and will remain in force until August 16, 2026 (both days inclusive), unless withdrawn earlier.
Meanwhile, the Change of Guard Ceremony, scheduled to be held at the Forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhavan, will not take place on August 1 and 8, 2026, due to rehearsals for the upcoming Independence Day Ceremony.
According to a press release issued by Rashtrapati Bhavan, the ceremony has been cancelled on both dates in view of the preparations and rehearsals for the Independence Day Ceremony 2026.
According to Rashtrapati Bhavan, the Change of Guard ceremony is a longstanding military tradition whose origins date back to ancient times. Historically, guards and sentries stationed at palaces, forts, and defence establishments were replaced at regular intervals to allow a fresh group of troops to assume duty.
The 30-minute ceremony is held every Saturday and symbolises the formal transfer of responsibility between guards. During the ceremony, guards and sentries are changed periodically, continuing a tradition followed in several military establishments.
At Rashtrapati Bhavan, the Ceremonial Army Guard Battalion is responsible for providing ceremonial guards and sentries for the President of India. The ceremony has recently been revamped and relocated to make it more visually appealing and accessible to the public. The venue has been shifted to the Forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhavan, allowing easier access for visitors.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Makes sense for security, but what about drone enthusiasts and photographers who had planned shoots? The notice period is quite short. I hope authorities consider giving more advance warning next time for such restrictions.
This is the right precaution. We saw what happened in other countries with drone attacks. Jai Hind! Better to cancel some aerial activities than to risk lives. The Change of Guard ceremony cancellation for rehearsals is also understandable.
Bringing back memories of my time in Delhi. Security during Independence Day has always been top-notch. These restrictions are standard procedure in any major capital city around the world. Makes sense.
A necessary evil, I suppose. But I do feel for the vendors and small businesses near India Gate who rely on drone shows and tourists during this time. Still, safety comes first. Hopefully, the 15th August celebrations go off without a hitch. 🙏
While security is crucial, I wonder if banning everything is the right approach. What about drone shows for cultural events or media coverage? Maybe a more nuanced approach could allow licensed operators while banning amateur use. Just a thought.
Fully support this decision. Our security forces work hard to keep us safe, and we should trust their judgment. The cancellation of the Change of
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