Indian security measures for Independence Day

In preparation for Independence Day celebrations, various Indian cities have implemented restrictions on aerial activities to mitigate security threats from criminal or terrorist elements.

In Delhi, Police Commissioner Anurag Kumar issued an order under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) 2023, banning drones, UAVs, quadcopters, paragliders, and other sub-conventional aerial platforms across the National Capital Territory from 2 August to 16 August 2026. The order also led to the cancellation of the Change of Guard ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan on 1 August and 8 August to accommodate event rehearsals.

Similarly, Chennai police established a four-day ban on drones and unmanned aerial vehicles from 14 to 17 August. Enforced under Section 14(2) of the BNSS, the restrictions cover microlight aircraft, paragliders, and hot-air balloons. The measures aim to secure Independence Day festivities and the scheduled visit of Vice-President CP Radhakrishnan, with specific ‘red zones’ established around the Secretariat and various travel routes.