Kishtwar, Feb 19 (JKNS): District Magistrate Kishtwar, Pankaj Kumar Sharma (JKAS), has imposed strict regulations on the collection of donations during the holy month of Ramadan-2026, directing that no person or organisation shall raise charity without obtaining prior approval from the competent authorities.
According to an order issued under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, a copy of which is available with news agency JKNS, any individual, NGO, trust, society or committee intending to collect donations whether in cash, kind or through digital means must possess valid registration under relevant laws and secure written clearance from the Executive Officer, Waqaf Board Unit Kishtwar, Imam Jamia Masjid Kishtwar (President Majlis Shura Committee) or the concerned Tehsildars.
While recognising that Zakat and Sadaqah are integral religious obligations during Ramadan, the order emphasises that any act of fraudulent collection, misrepresentation or misuse of public contributions will be dealt with strictly.
All authorised fundraising bodies have been instructed to maintain proper records of receipts and expenditures. Any person found collecting donations without valid identification, registration documents and an approved receipt book will be treated as unauthorised.
The administration has also banned coercive practices, including harassment of commuters or obstruction of public movement for seeking donations. Sub-Registrars have been directed to publish within five days a list of duly registered charitable trusts functioning in the district to assist the public.
A District Vigilance Helpline (9484217492 / 01995-259555 / 9906154100) has been activated to report suspicious or illegal fundraising activities.
The SSP Kishtwar and all SDMs/Tehsildars have been tasked with ensuring strict implementation of the order. Violators will face action under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, and other applicable laws.
The directive has come into immediate effect and will remain in force throughout Ramadan–2026. (JKNS)
