27 Ganesh pandal organisers face police action for using banned DJs in Hyderabad

Hyderabad Police have registered cases against organisers of 27 Ganesh mandapams in the Charminar zone for violating restrictions on the use of DJ systems during Ganesh festival processions. Police seized 68 sound boxes and 21 amplifiers as part of the action.According to the South Zone DCP, 51 organisers were also called for counselling. Most of the FIRs were registered under the limits of the Hussaini Alam and Chatrinaka police stations.CCTV, DRONES USED TO MONITOR PROCESSIONSThe action followed an extensive monitoring exercise in which police used CCTV cameras, drones and special checking teams to identify organisers allegedly using prohibited DJ systems during processions.Around 2,500 Ganesh idols were installed across the Charminar zone during the festival. Police said nearly 99 per cent of organisers followed the prescribed guidelines, with action taken against the small number who allegedly violated the restrictions. Hyderabad Police have prohibited the use of DJ sound systems, DJ mixers, sound amplifiers and other high-sound-generating equipment during religious processions. The restriction was formally notified by the Hyderabad City Police Commissioner under the relevant provisions of the Hyderabad City Police Act and the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS).POLICE SAY ACTION NOT TARGETED AT ANY COMMUNITYPolice clarified that the enforcement was not directed against any particular religion or festival and said similar action would be taken against violations during religious processions irrespective of the community involved. Police also cited previous action during Milad-un-Nabi processions against violations, including riding vehicles without silencers and creating public nuisance.Officials said they deliberately focused on the main organisers and those providing DJ systems. They also sought to avoid unnecessary criminal cases against minors, students and others whom police felt should not be drawn into such proceedings.WARNING OF STRICT ACTION FOR FUTURE VIOLATIONSHyderabad Police warned organisers that further violations of the restrictions on DJ systems during processions would invite strict action.The police also appealed to all communities to cooperate in maintaining peace, public order and Hyderabad's traditional Ganga-Jamuni tehzeeb.The enforcement comes amid continued restrictions on high-powered DJ systems during religious processions in Hyderabad. Police have cited noise pollution, public health concerns and difficulties in maintaining communication during large gatherings as reasons for the restrictions.- Ends