Hosadurga police have directed organisers of Ganeshotsav programmes to obtain prior permissions and follow sound, signage and public-safety rules during the festival in the town and surrounding villages. Police Inspector K.T. Ramesh issued the instructions at a peace meeting held at the Hosadurga police station premises on Saturday.
Ramesh said organisers must secure the required approvals before conducting any Ganeshotsav-related programme. Police will collect details of authorised events and provide necessary assistance in accordance with instructions issued by senior officials, he said.
The police have also told sound-system operators about the applicable rules. DJ systems will not be permitted, while only loudspeakers approved under the prescribed regulations may be used. Police said meetings had already been held with sound-system users to explain the requirements.
Organisers putting up flex boards, buntings or banners must obtain permission from the relevant municipal council or gram panchayat. The permission number, details of the person commissioning the display and the printer’s details must be recorded. Organisers must comply with the approved dates, locations, sizes and time limits.
Decorations must not be placed in the middle of roads or in ways that obstruct traffic. Separate permission from the relevant department will be required for decorations that could affect road movement, police said.
The police also prohibited words, images or symbols on flex boards and banners that could harm communal harmony or offend religious sentiments. Printers were also instructed about the restriction. Legal action will be taken against those who install displays in violation of the rules, Ramesh said.
Residents have been asked to immediately inform beat police personnel about disputes or disturbances linked to the celebrations. Ramesh said the same law would apply to all Ganesh idols without discrimination and urged the public and festival committees to cooperate with the police to ensure peaceful celebrations.
