Cuttack: As the festive spirit builds up and Dussehra draws near, the Commissionerate Police in Cuttack has issued fresh guidelines to ensure peace and order during Durga Puja celebrations.
Following a peace meeting held on Saturday, the police have announced a complete ban on the use of DJs and the bursting of firecrackers during the upcoming Durga Puja immersion processions.
To minimize disturbances to the public, the Commissionerate Police in Cuttack has also restricted the number of sound boxes allowed during the festival.
Puja committees are limited to using a maximum of six sound boxes, and all sound systems must be turned off by 10 PM on Puja days.
The police urged Puja committees to prioritize peace and harmony throughout the celebrations. Processions and immersion ceremonies will be allowed until 10 PM, with a possible extension to midnight if the State government grants permission.
Additionally, the police emphasized zero tolerance for forced donations or “chanda” collections during Dussehra.
Cuttack Additional DCP Anil Mishra, while addressing the media, stated, “This year, we have restricted the use of sound boxes to six per committee. No DJs or firecrackers will be permitted. Processions should be kept short, and an artificial pond will be constructed for the immersion of all idols.”
Mishra further clarified that celebrations would continue until 10 PM, with a potential extension to midnight, subject to government approval.
“We will also implement zero tolerance for extortion in the name of Puja. A toll-free number will soon be released for reporting such cases, and complainants’ identities will be kept confidential,” he added.
Voluntary donations, however, remain allowed, as per the police administration.
