Law And Order / Ganesh Puja In Bhubaneswar: DJs & Fireworks Prohibited; Forced 'Chanda' Collection to Attract Action

Bhubaneswar, Sep 8: The Commissionerate Police has imposed a series of restrictions for Ganesh Puja celebrations in Bhubaneswar, including a ban on DJs, a prohibition on melody programmes after 10 pm and restrictions on fireworks.

The guidelines were announced after the Commissionerate Police held discussions with members of various puja committees in the capital ahead of the festival.

Traditional musical instruments may be used during the celebrations, while DJs have been prohibited. Melody programmes have also been barred after 10 pm to prevent noise-related disturbances.

Fireworks have been prohibited during the celebrations, while CCTV cameras have been made mandatory at puja mandaps as part of the security arrangements.

Also Read: Ganesh Puja Preparations Gather Pace In Kataka As Artisans Work Round The Clock

Strict Action Against Forced 'Chanda'
The police have also warned puja committee members against collecting donations (Chanda) by force.

Strong action would be taken against members of puja committees found demanding donations forcibly, police said. Residents have been advised to report such incidents by calling the dedicated helpline at 8280338302 or the emergency number 112.

Puja committees have also been directed to ensure adequate lighting at parking areas, 'Mina Bazaars' and melody programme venues. They have been asked to strengthen fire-safety arrangements at the venues.

The police have further imposed restrictions on the construction of distorted or objectionable idols as part of the festival guidelines.

420 Mandaps To Host Ganesh Puja
According to a source, Ganesh Puja is scheduled to be held at around 420 mandaps across the Commissionerate Police area.

Of these, around 380 puja mandaps are located in Bhubaneswar, while another 40 are in Jatani.

So far, the authorities have received around 340 applications seeking permission to organise Ganesh Puja celebrations.

30 Platoons Of Force To Be Deployed
Security arrangements have also been strengthened across the capital ahead of the festival.

Around 30 platoons of police force are expected to be deployed in Bhubaneswar. The deployment would include four additional DCPs, 10 ACPs, 32 inspectors, 100 SIs and ASIs, and 20 women home guards.

The Commissionerate Police has urged puja committees and organisers to cooperate with the authorities and ensure that the celebrations are conducted peacefully while adhering to the prescribed guidelines.