Mumbai police issue strict guidelines for Holi: Here’s what’s allowed, what’s not
Ahead of the upcoming Holi festival, the Mumbai Police have introduced a set of strict guidelines to ensure public peace and safety during the celebrations. The restrictions, which will be in place from March 12 to 18, cover the festivals of Holi, Dhulivandan, and Rang Panchami. The banned activities include:
| The city police have listed four prohibitions in light of the festival. These are: |
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| The public utterances of obscene words or slogans, or singing of obscene songs. |
| The use of gestures or mimetic representations and the preparation, exhibition or dissemination of pictures, symbols, placards or any other objects or things which may offend the dignity, decency or morality. |
| The practice of spraying or throwing colored water, dyes or powder on pedestrians. |
| Preparation and/or throwing of balloons filled with colored or plain water or any liquid. |
The order, signed by Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Akbar Pathan and released on Monday, is aimed at preventing “communal tension and breaches of public peace.” The police have made it clear that anyone who disobeys these rules or encourages others to do so will face legal consequences. Specifically, violators will be punished under Section 135 of the Maharashtra Police Act, 1951.
To ensure widespread awareness, the police will publish the restrictions in local newspapers, official gazettes, and post notices in prominent public areas. Additionally, announcements will be made via loudspeakers across Mumbai.
The Mumbai Police are urging everyone to comply with these guidelines to keep the festive season peaceful and enjoyable for all.
