With Ganeshotsav preparations underway, Belagavi’s new Police Commissioner Prakash Nikam has urged Ganesh Mandals to strictly follow the routes, rules and guidelines issued by the police administration and coordinate with the police while planning their celebrations.
A meeting with office-bearers of various Ganesh Mandals was held at the Market Police Station to discuss arrangements for the festival. Commissioner Nikam addressed the gathering.
Nikam said the police administration did not intend to restrict the festive spirit but stressed that proper planning and adherence to rules were necessary to ensure peaceful celebrations.
“We do not wish to dampen your spirits or spoil your celebration. We want you to enjoy the festival to the fullest. However, certain rules and planning are necessary,” he said.
Avoid last-minute changes to procession routes
Nikam said the police administration had been preparing for the Ganesh immersion procession for the past two months, with security arrangements at various locations planned based on inputs from intelligence agencies.
He cautioned Mandals against seeking changes to the procession route at the last minute or taking alternative routes, saying such moves could create law-and-order issues and lead to unnecessary confrontation between the police and Mandals.
“Neither you nor we would be happy in such a scenario,” he said.
36-hour immersion procession a concern
The Commissioner also expressed concern over the duration of Belagavi’s Ganesh immersion procession, which has in the past continued for as long as 36 hours.
He noted that while Mandals earlier competed to be among the first to take their idols for immersion, a new trend has emerged in which Mandals compete to be the last. He termed the prolonged duration of the procession a matter of concern from the security and law-and-order perspective.
Commissioner raises concern over high-volume DJ systems
Nikam also spoke about the increasing use of high-volume DJ systems during Ganesh processions.
“In the past, there used to be just one or two speakers; now, the number has increased to the point where a literal wall of speakers is erected. Just try standing amidst such loud noise for half an hour, and you will realise the impact it has on the body,” he said.
He clarified that the police were not opposed to the use of DJs but said they should be used responsibly and within the prescribed norms.
“We are not saying ‘do not use DJs’; however, they must be used in a manner that is appropriate for you, for us, and for society as a whole,” Nikam said.
He appealed to Mandals to consider the impact of excessive noise on children, senior citizens and people suffering from various ailments.
Ganesh idol arrival ceremony must end before 10 pm
Nikam also issued directions regarding Ganesh idol arrival ceremonies.
Referring to an unfortunate incident during a Ganesh arrival procession in Mumbai, he urged Mandals to take necessary precautions and ensure that the arrival ceremonies are completed before 10 pm.
He further said that DJs should not be used during Ganesh idol arrival processions. Separate decisions and guidelines regarding DJ use on the day of immersion would be issued by the police administration, he added.
No permission for plasma or laser displays
The Commissioner also made it clear that plasma and laser displays will not be permitted during the Ganesh festival.
He said direct exposure to laser light could pose a serious risk to eyesight and stated that permission would not be granted for such displays under any circumstances.
‘Peace in Belagavi is crucial for three states’
Nikam stressed the importance of maintaining peace during Ganeshotsav, particularly given Belagavi’s location at the junction of three states.
He said any incident in the city could have repercussions beyond Belagavi, making it crucial for the festival and immersion processions to be conducted peacefully and in coordination with the police administration.
The meeting focused on ensuring that the festive celebrations continue with enthusiasm while maintaining law and order, public safety and discipline during the processions.