Mumbai Police have prohibited people from photographing, filming, publishing or circulating images and videos of Durga idols that remain floating or partially submerged after immersion across Greater Mumbai from October 20 to 22, 2026.
The restriction has been issued by Deputy Commissioner of Police (Operations) Akbar Pathan, who also serves as an Executive Magistrate for Greater Mumbai, under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023. The order covers visuals recorded after immersion, including images of idols drifting ashore during high tide or remaining in lakes.
According to the order, some idols may become partially dissolved after immersion and may either float in the water or be found along the shore. Police said photographs and videos of such idols are sometimes taken when the idols are lying on the shoreline or being transported by Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation workers for reimmersion.
The authorities said the publication or circulation of these visuals could hurt religious sentiments and disturb public peace and tranquillity. The order states that immediate preventive action was necessary ahead of the scheduled Durga idol immersion period.
The prohibition applies throughout Greater Mumbai. No person is permitted to photograph or record videos of idols that are floating or half-submerged after immersion. The order also bars the subsequent publishing or circulation of such material.
The restriction will remain in force for the three-day period from October 20 to October 22. The order further states that its expiry will not affect any investigation or legal proceedings initiated in connection with a violation. Any penalty or punishment arising from a contravention may still be imposed after the restriction ends.
The police have directed that copies of the order be displayed at prominent public places. It will also be publicised through local newspapers and announcements over loudspeakers across Greater Mumbai. The stated purpose of the measure is to prevent possible disturbances and maintain public order during the festival and immersion operations.
