Mumbai Police Tighten Security Ahead Of Dahi Handi And Ganeshotsav, Ban Carrying Of Weapons And Explosives From August 29 To September 27

Mumbai's police authorities have implemented stringent security measures in anticipation of the upcoming Dahi Handi and Ganeshotsav festivals. According to a recent directive by Deputy Commissioner of Police (Operations) Akbar Pathan, citizens are prohibited from carrying weapons, explosives, and other dangerous items from August 29 to September 27 under the Maharashtra Police Act.

The ban encompasses a wide range of items, including swords, spears, knives, sticks, lathis, and any other objects capable of inflicting physical harm. The prohibition also extends to the possession of corrosive substances or explosives, as well as the collection or preparation of stones, missiles, or instruments designed to launch missiles.

Additionally, the public display of figures or effigies, as well as certain public utterances, songs, music, speeches, gestures, mimetic representations, pictures, symbols, placards, or other materials deemed offensive by a police officer, are also prohibited.

Police personnel have the authority to disarm individuals found in possession of prohibited articles and seize corrosive substances, explosives, or missiles. These seized items may be forfeited to the state government. However, government employees, certain government undertaking personnel, private security guards, Gurkhas, chowkidars, and others engaged in watch-and-ward duties may carry lathis not exceeding 3.5 feet in length.

It is important to note that the prohibition does not apply to government employees or personnel of government undertakings. The order expires on September 27, but penalties, forfeitures, or punishments for violations can still be imposed post-expiry. The ban is set to remain in effect during the ten-day Ganesh festival, which commences on September 14, and will conclude on the day after Dahi Handi, celebrated on September 5.