Power to close shops temporarily

(1) The District Magistrate or a Sub-divisional Magistrate, may, by notice in writing to the licensee, require that any shop in which any intoxicant is sold shall be closed at such times or for such period as he may think necessary for the preservation of the public peace. (2) If any riot or unlawful assembly is apprehended or occurs in the vicinity of any shop in which any intoxicant is sold, any Magistrate or any police officer above the rank of constable, who is present, may require such shop to be kept closed for such period as he may think necessary. (3) When a direction is made by a Magistrate under Sub-section (1), or sub-section (2), or by a police officer under sub-section (2) such Magistrate or Police Officer shall forthwith inform the Collector of his action and of his reasons there for.