Mandya administration assures security for Gowri-Ganesha festival, warns against disruption

Ahead of the Gowri-Ganesha festival, the Mandya district administration has pledged full cooperation and police security for peaceful celebrations while issuing a stern warning against any attempts to disrupt public order.

Speaking at a taluk-level harmony meeting in Nagamangala, Deputy Commissioner Kumar emphasised that no festival should be held in an atmosphere of fear. He stressed that Mandya, known for its communal amity, must not witness incidents that could inflame sentiments. Referring to disturbances over the past two years as a "black mark," he urged residents to remain vigilant and prevent any recurrence.

"Every member of society should act responsibly to ensure that activities disturbing harmony and communal amity are prevented," Kumar said. He added that no one is above the law and called on citizens to counsel youngsters who might be led astray into anti-social behaviour.

To simplify the process for installing public Ganesha idols, the Deputy Commissioner announced a single-window clearance system. Applicants will no longer need to visit multiple departments; officials from police, revenue, fire, and local bodies will jointly inspect sites and issue permissions within 24 hours. The required documentation has also been streamlined.

Superintendent of Police V.J. Shobharaji, who attended the meeting, said dates for idol installation and immersion, along with procession routes, must be finalised in consultation with the police. Security arrangements will be based on these plans. She also banned the use of DJs and directed that loudspeakers be kept within prescribed volume limits in residential areas.

For the safety of women and girls, CCTV cameras must be installed near pandals. The SP added that trained personnel have been deployed at every police station to monitor social media, urging people to be cautious with posts, posters, and reels that could violate the law or hurt community sentiments.

Municipal authorities have been instructed to arrange electric lights, barricades, and CCTV during mass immersions. A crane and trained swimmers will also be deployed to prevent untoward incidents during the final rites.