Manipur: Ahead of PM Modi Visit — No-Fly / No-Drone Zone Declared Over Churachandpur
The Churachandpur district administration in Manipur has declared the entire district a “no-drone/no-fly zone”, banning drones, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), balloons and other aerial devices with immediate effect — a security move issued ahead of a likely visit by Prime Minister Narendra Modi later in September. The order, issued by the District Magistrate, warns of legal action under relevant laws (including Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023) for violators and will remain in force until further notice.
On 4 September 2025 the Churachandpur district administration issued an order prohibiting the use of aerial devices — drones, UAVs, balloons and similar flying objects — across the district, turning it into a temporary no-drone / no-fly zone. The directive cites security concerns and comes amid preparations for a high-profile VVIP visit that many outlets report is likely to include Prime Minister Narendra Modi in mid-September. The district order says unauthorised aerial photography or videography could compromise security arrangements and warns of strict legal consequences under applicable laws.
So — at its core this is a standard VVIP security move: suspend or tightly control aerial activity above a district while security plans are implemented.
Why authorities declare no-drone zones before VVIP visits
Security planners adopt a layered approach to protect VVIPs. That includes ground cordons, traffic controls, counter-surveillance, and control of the airspace directly above and around the route and the venue.
Drones pose specific risks:
- They can carry cameras that capture sensitive images of security layouts.
- In worst-case scenarios, they can be weaponised.
- Even consumer drones can interfere with helicopters or surveillance aircraft.
A temporary ban reduces uncertainty and closes an avenue that malicious actors could exploit. So while it may feel restrictive to residents and hobbyists, the intent is to reduce avoidable risk during a concentrated security operation.
5 FAQs
1. Q: Is the Churachandpur order a permanent ban on drones?
A: No. It’s a temporary prohibition tied to a security situation (a likely VVIP visit). The ban remains in effect until the district administration rescinds it. Monitor official district notices for updates.
2. Q: Can I get permission to fly a drone during the ban for essential work (agri surveys, mapping)?
A: In exceptional, vetted cases authorities may issue written permissions after strict scrutiny. Don’t attempt to fly without written, authorised permission — doing so risks seizure and criminal prosecution. Contact the district administration or local police control room for the official process.
3. Q: What law will be used if someone breaks the ban?
A: Media reports cite Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023 and other applicable laws. The exact charges depend on the violation’s facts, but the district’s warning indicates a strict legal posture.
4. Q: Does the ban affect manned aircraft (like helicopters) too?
A: The district order primarily targets drones and similar small aerial devices. Manned aircraft operations are regulated by national aviation authorities and the Ministry of Defence; any manoeuvres involving manned aircraft would be coordinated at higher levels. If you’re unsure and work with manned aviation, coordinate with civil aviation authorities.
5. Q: How long will this security posture likely last?
A: Such bans typically last just long enough to cover arrival, event and departure of the VVIP — commonly a few days around the visit — but the district will publish the order’s effective dates and any extensions. Stay tuned to official channels for rescindment notices.
