Kashmir Impulse Desk

Srinagar, July 25

Police have registered a criminal case against a Delhi-based production company for allegedly operating a drone without permission during a film shoot in the upper reaches of Srinagar’s Nishat area, officials said on Saturday.

The drone was reportedly being used for filming in violation of restrictions imposed by the Srinagar district administration, and the production company had not obtained the necessary clearance from the police, according to officials familiar with the matter.

The incident came to light during an inspection in the area, when the production manager was allegedly found operating the drone despite prohibitory orders governing the use of unmanned aerial devices.

Officials said drone operations in the area require prior authorisation and clearance from the competent authorities, particularly in view of security considerations in Srinagar.

Following the incident, police at Nishat police station registered FIR No. 60/2026 under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and launched an investigation.

The case relates to the alleged violation of orders issued by the District Magistrate, Srinagar, restricting unauthorised drone operations.

Police have not disclosed the name of the production company or provided details about the film being shot.

The incident highlights the heightened scrutiny surrounding the use of drones in Srinagar and other parts of Kashmir, where authorities have repeatedly imposed restrictions on unauthorised aerial activity because of security concerns.

Investigators are expected to examine the circumstances in which the drone was flown, determine who authorised its operation and establish whether the production team had obtained any permissions for filming in the area.

The case comes amid increased security measures across Kashmir, with authorities stepping up surveillance and monitoring following a recent militant attack in Anantnag.

Security agencies have also intensified checks and joint operations in several districts, adding to scrutiny of activities involving drones and other aerial devices.

The investigation into the alleged unauthorised drone flight is continuing.