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Zohran Mamdani's swearing-in: THESE banned items spark debate on social media

The list of barred items included not only expected items like weapons but also niche tech gadgets like the Flipper Zero and Raspberry Pi, as well as everyday items

New York Attorney General Letitia James, left, administers the oath of office to mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani, center, as his wife Rama Duwaji looks on | AP

Zohran Mamdani was sworn in as New York City mayor on New Year's Eve inside the old abandoned City Hall subway station on Thursday. Before the inauguration ceremony, a long list of barred items from the event was shared by Zohran Mamdani, leaving the social media users stunned.  

Weapons, explosives, and illegal substances were banned. Among other items included were strollers, bicycles, umbrellas, Flipper Zero devices and Raspberry Pis.

Raspberry Pis and Flipper Zero devices are technology-based gadgets. Raspberry Pis are a series of small single-board computers, especially low-cost ones used for coding, electronics projects and basic software. While Flipper Zero devices are gadgets that interact with wireless signals involving RFID cards and Bluetooth devices.

According to tech experts, putting a ban on these niche items was unusual, as far more advanced tech-based gadgets were allowed. 

Social media was flooded with messages after the 'unusual' ban list was shared, leaving many users shocked. "The stroller is the most insane to me as it looks like he's anti-baby," said a user. 

"What should I wear and what should I bring?" wrote another social media user. 

"Going from the ban list, it's the lamest party ever. Why even bother?" shared another user. 

List of items banned: 

Large bags

Weapons, fireworks or explosives 

Large backpacks or duffel bags

Drones or remote-controlled aerial devices

Strollers

Coolers

Chairs 

Blankets

Umbrellas

Bicycles or scooters 

Alcoholic beverages

Illegal substances

Pets

Large items that could obstruct the views of spectators around you

Laser Pen

Bats/Batons

Flipper Zero

Raspberry Pi