Laser Beam Light Ban To Implement From Dahi Handi Utsav, Pune Police Urges Compliance With RegulationsÂ
Laser Beam Light Ban To Implement From Dahi Handi Utsav, Pune Police Urges Compliance With Regulations
Pune, August 17, 2024
After the decision to ban the use of laser beam lights during Ganeshotsav, its implementation will begin from Dahi Handi. Based on experiences from the last few years, it has been observed that there has been extensive use of laser beam lights on the day of Dahi Handi. Therefore, citizens are expressing the hope that the decision made by the police regarding Dahi Handi will be followed.
Eye injuries due to light
Reports have surfaced that many people suffered eye injuries from laser beams during the Ganesh immersion procession across the state. After the immersion procession in Pune, around 15 cases of retinal injuries due to laser beams were reported. This number increased later. Some individuals had serious injuries. As a result, there has been a demand for a ban on laser beam lights since then.
Warning of Action
Against the backdrop of the Ganesh festival, Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar held a meeting with the office bearers of Ganesh mandals in the city. After that meeting, the Police Commissioner decided to impose a ban on laser beam lights that may be used on loudspeakers during the immersion procession. He also warned that legal action would be taken against anyone who uses laser beam lights.
The Dahi Handi festival will be celebrated in the city after ten days (on August 27). Banners for the Dahi Handi events have started to appear at various locations in the city. These banners prominently mention who will own the loudspeakers and whose ‘lights’ will be used. Some banners also state that ‘lights’ will be a special attraction. Therefore, it remains to be seen whether the police will maintain their current stance.
The police had set a limit on the number of loudspeakers (bass, tops, etc.) to be used during immersion processions, Dahi Handi, or other religious processions a few years ago. However, it seems that these rules are being violated. A leader from a ruling party in the city has announced that a large number of loudspeakers will be used on the day of Dahi Handi. The concerned parties have exceeded the number of loudspeakers and the sound limit.
The ban on the use of laser beam lights will come into effect from Dahi Handi onwards. Everyone should follow the rules while celebrating Dahi Handi. – Amitesh Kumar, Police Commissioner, Pune City.
