SINGAPORE — The scope of police powers under a new Bill aimed at allowing authorities to continue with measures to maintain public order in Little India is far less than what is already spelled out in existing laws, said Second Home Affairs Minister S Iswaran.

Under the new Public Order (Additional Temporary Measures) Bill, a section of Little India will be termed a “Special Zone”. Restrictions there include a general prohibition against the sale, supply, and consumption of alcohol. Police will be allowed to search or interview anyone who enters the zone.

Addressing concerns over these measures in Parliament today (Feb 18), Mr Iswaran said police have well-established protocols to ensure that such checks and interviews are conducted “purposefully, responsibly, and professionally”, and that the power to search a property and detain a person, without a warrant, can only be done by a police officer with at least the rank of sergeant.

Mr Iswaran also said the more focused powers have proven to be “necessary and effective in policing large crowds and ensuring public order”, adding that the measures are similar to those at special events, and will be similarly useful in the context of the special zone in Little India.

On alcohol-related measures, Mr Iswaran said no new liquor licences or extension of trading hours for existing licences will be granted for establishments in the special zone until the Home Affairs Ministry concludes its review of the liquor licensing regime.

Possession of or bringing alcohol into the special zone is not an offence. But those who illegally consume alcohol in a public place within the special zone could be fined up to S$1,000. Businesses which sell alcohol within the special zone face a fine of up to S$5,000.

The Bill is temporary, and will be in place for 12 months until authorities decide on longer-term measures after taking into account the findings and recommendations of the Committee of Inquiry on the Little India riot, as well as the review of the liquor licensing regime.

Mr Iswaran said: “In the measures that we have taken, and in setting out this temporary legislation, we have endeavoured to balance the considerations of various stakeholders — residents, business owners, and visitors — while maintaining order and preventing a similar incident.

“Notwithstanding the diverse interests and perspective within each of stakeholders, we have been encouraged and gratified by the understanding and support of business associations, grassroots leaders and residents in the area.

“We will continue to work closely with key stakeholders even as we develop longer-term solutions.” CHANNEL NEWSASIA

Read Mr Iswaran's speech on the second reading of the Public Order (Additional Temporary Measures) Bill here.