Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru

Mangaluru, Aug 25: In view of the upcoming festive season featuring celebrations such as Eid Milad, Krishna Janmashtami, Ganesh Chaturthi, Navarathri, Deepawali, and Christmas, the Dakshina Kannada district police have issued strict conditions for public events and processions to ensure peace, safety, and legal compliance.

The Superintendent of Police has mandated that all organizers seeking permission within the district limits must obtain prior written approval and submit the contact details of responsible persons. For events held at private venues, a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the property owner is mandatory.

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Ban on DJs and strict timings

According to the issued guidelines, the use of DJ systems, high-decibel speakers, or similar sound systems is strictly prohibited. Organizers can use loudspeakers only with prior written permission, and they must be switched off by 10 pm. Noise levels must strictly remain within the prescribed limits of 65 dB in commercial areas, 55 dB in residential zones, and 50 dB in silence zones.

Furthermore, no procession will be allowed beyond 11:30 pm under any circumstances. Any gathering beyond this specified time, or any deviation from the approved event location and route, will be treated as an unlawful assembly.

Security, harmony, and women's safety

To ensure the safety of idols, pandals, and other valuables, organizers must deploy round-the-clock (24x7) security personnel at the site. The installation of CCTV cameras is compulsory, and the recorded footage must be preserved for a minimum of 30 days.

The police have warned of strict action against any slogans, banners, performances, or social media content that incites hatred, religious insult, or communal disharmony. Additionally, there is a zero-tolerance policy towards eve-teasing, stalking, voyeurism, or sexual harassment during any event or procession.

Other key guidelines issued by the police include:

• Crowd Control: Adequate volunteers must be deployed for crowd management, ensuring the gathering does not exceed the approved capacity.

• Structure and Vehicle Safety: The heights of pandals and vehicles must not exceed legal or MESCOM norms. All vehicles used must carry valid RC, fitness, insurance, and PUC documents.

• Emergency Measures: Organizers must provide fire extinguishers, ambulances, and first aid kits. The use of toxic dyes, banned chemicals, and single-use plastics is strictly prohibited.

• Traffic Management: Free movement of vehicles and pedestrians must be ensured, emergency routes must remain unblocked, and parking is allowed only in designated areas.

• Property and Cleanliness: No damage should be caused to public or private property. Banners and flex boards require prior approval and must be removed after the event, with the site cleaned in coordination with the MCC.

• Weapons and Drones: Carrying arms or dangerous weapons is strictly prohibited. The use of drones requires prior written approval from the competent authority.

• Animal Use: Using animals in processions requires prior permission and strict adherence to animal welfare guidelines.

The police department noted that authorized officers may inspect venues at any time, and any obstruction by organizers will lead to legal action. Organizers and participants are urged to report any suspicious activities or disruptions by dialling 112 or contacting the nearest police station.

Non-compliance with any of these conditions will invite strict prosecution under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, the Karnataka Police Act, and other relevant laws.