Permission to be obtained to use sound systems at night during Ganesha festival

HUBBALLI

BJP leader Mallikarjuna Savkara has urged Ganesha festival organisers to seek police permission for using sound systems at night, noting that the Supreme Court has not banned sound after 10 pm but imposed conditions. "The Court allows limited use on special occasions—not exceeding 45 decibels. We must follow legal procedures and obtain official consent for this year's Ganeshotsava," he said at a preparatory meeting organised by the Dr Rajkumar Fans’ Association and the District Public Gajananotsava Foundation Board.

He stressed that while the Court allows sound systems during festivals, the police have not clarified their stance for night-time use. He suggested that festival committees consult legal experts and engage with the police department collectively to obtain necessary permissions.

Criticising some local committees for allegedly blocking darshan of idols and collecting money from devotees, he said such practices discourage public participation and tarnish the festival's spirit. “Why should people stand in queues or pay for darshan? This must stop,” he said.

Adding to the discussion, Nagesh Kalburgi highlighted that police permissions must be obtained in accordance with the law. "If there's no sound system at night, attendance drops and the celebration suffers," he said. Citing peaceful celebrations since 1992, he added that members of all communities participate in the Ganeshotsava, underscoring its inclusive nature.

He recommended that festival organisers approach the Police Commissioner for clarity and resolution.

Former Corporation member Shivananda Muthannavara and leaders Sadananda Dangavara, Mallikarjuna Talur, Vijayakumar Appaji and others were present at the meeting.

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"The police department grants permission as per legal provisions. Without the use of sound systems at night, public participation declines and the festive spirit is lost. Apart from one incident in 1992, no untoward events have occurred in the years since. Members from all religious communities are part of the Ganeshotsava committee. Therefore, we should hold discussions with the Police Commissioner to seek legal approval for sound system use," said Nagesh Kalburgi.