The District Magistrate (DM), Baramulla, has prohibited individuals, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), trusts and other organisations from collecting donations or funds from the public without obtaining prior permission from the competent authority, citing concerns over unauthorised fundraising and the possible misuse of public goodwill.
In an order issued vide order No. 28/DMB/2026 dated July 21, 2026, follows a report submitted by the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), Baramulla, highlighting instances of unauthorised donation drives in the district.
According to the order, police field units recently found certain non-local individuals, including women, collecting money from the public in Baramulla town on the pretext of providing relief to victims of natural calamities.
During verification, the individuals reportedly failed to produce any valid permission, authorisation or supporting documents issued by any government department, recognised NGO, charitable organisation or other competent authority to justify the fundraising campaign.
The District Magistrate observed that collecting donations without proper authorisation raises serious concerns over transparency and accountability.
The order states that such activities have the potential to misuse public trust and exploit citizens through unauthorised fundraising campaigns.
To regulate such activities and ensure proper verification and monitoring, the administration has directed that no individual, organisation, NGO or trust shall undertake any public donation or fund collection drive anywhere in Baramulla district unless prior permission has been obtained from the competent authority.
The order further directs the Senior Superintendents of Police of Baramulla and Sopore, along with all Executive Magistrates in the district, to ensure strict implementation of the directive.
They have also been instructed to initiate action against anyone found violating the order under the relevant provisions of law. The administration said the measure is aimed at safeguarding public interest, ensuring transparency in charitable collections and preventing fraudulent or unauthorised fundraising activities in the district.
