The Karnataka Police have imposed stringent regulations and mandatory bond proformas for organizing Ganeshotsav celebrations, as per the reports from the Deccan Herald, raising concerns about selective enforcement of the law. While these rules, including restrictions on sound levels, are ostensibly aimed at maintaining public order, there appears to be a glaring inconsistency in their application. For instance, the same rigour is conspicuously absent when it comes to religious celebrations by Islamists and Christians, where similar proformas or bonds are rarely if ever, enforced. This selective approach towards Ganeshotsav has led to growing discontent among the public, who perceive it as an unfair targeting of specific communities like Hindus while others enjoy unchecked freedom.
Furthermore, the police’s strict mandate on ensuring that speakers during Ganeshotsav do not exceed the specified decibel levels under noise pollution regulations contrasts sharply with their apparent inability to enforce similar restrictions on loudspeakers used at mosques and other religious institutions. Despite clear Supreme Court orders regulating noise pollution, these institutions often continue to operate with impunity, creating a sense of double standards in law enforcement. The silence and inaction of the authorities in these instances not only undermine the credibility of the regulations but also contribute to a growing sense of injustice among those subjected to stringent oversight during their religious festivities.
It has been highly criticized that the regulations prohibit playing songs with specific religious content, raising concerns about what kind of songs are permissible during Hindu festivals and why such regulations have been put only targeting Hindus.
Bengaluru police issued guidelines for Ganeshotsav festival
Sound Systems: The use of Dolby DJ sound systems during the procession is strictly prohibited. Organizers must ensure that the sound levels do not exceed 100 decibels and are limited to a maximum of two loudspeakers. Violations will lead to immediate legal action.
Content Restrictions: During the procession, the playing of vulgar songs, communal speeches, or inflammatory slogans is forbidden. Any such behaviour will result in the immediate confiscation of sound equipment and legal proceedings.
Alcohol Consumption: The use of intoxicating substances by volunteers, committee members, or the public during the procession is strictly prohibited. Any person found under the influence will be removed from the procession.
Prohibition of Communal Displays: The display of communal or provocative posters, banners, or images during the procession is not allowed.
Procession Route: The procession must follow the route approved by the police. Any deviation from the approved route or use of dangerous firecrackers and loud instruments is strictly prohibited.
Sensitive Areas: Firecrackers must not be lit in front of religious places such as temples, mosques, churches, or near places with women and children. Special care must be taken to avoid any disturbance in these areas.
Procession Timing: The procession must begin and end within the stipulated time frame.
Size of the Ganesh Idol: The height of the Ganesh idol, including its vehicle, should not exceed 10 feet.
No Obstruction: The construction of temporary structures that obstruct the movement of vehicles, especially emergency services like fire trucks and ambulances, is prohibited. Additionally, no decorations or lighting should be installed on or near electric poles.
Post-Immersion Clean-Up: All Ganesh idols and related decorations must be removed immediately after the immersion ceremony.
Enforcement and penalties
The Karnataka Police have made it clear that any violation of these guidelines, including those set by the Supreme Court in WP (Criminal) No. 77/2007, will result in strict legal action against the organizers. A formal undertaking must be signed by the organizers agreeing to these terms.
These regulations are part of a broader effort to ensure that Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations are conducted peacefully and in accordance with the law. The police have also emphasized the need for cooperation from the public and community leaders in adhering to these guidelines.
In contrast, questions have been raised about the selective enforcement of such regulations. While the police strictly monitor Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations, similar restrictions are often not enforced during other religious events, leading to concerns about fairness and consistency in the application of the law.
The Allahabad High Court recently dismissed a petition seeking the installation of loudspeakers in mosques, stating that it is “not a fundamental right.” Despite this clear legal stance, many mosques continue to flout the guidelines on noise pollution with impunity. It is concerning that while law enforcement agencies appear to overlook these violations, they are increasingly targeting Hindu festivals with stringent rules and regulations. This selective enforcement of the law is not only unjust but also highly condemnable, raising serious questions about the fairness and impartiality of our legal and law enforcement systems.
