Mumbai, August 27: Preparations for Maharashtra’s renowned state-level festival, Ganesh Chaturthi, are in full swing. In a recent meeting, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis emphasized the importance of adhering to food and drug administration regulations regarding the purity of offerings distributed by Ganesh mandals. He stressed that it is essential for devotees to receive offerings that are pure and free from adulteration, urging mandals to seek guidance and training to meet necessary standards.
During the meeting held at Sahyadri Guest House, CM Fadnavis provided several directives concerning law and order for Ganeshotsav 2026. He praised the extensive celebrations organized by mandals in Mumbai, highlighting the need to promote the ideals of social unity and awareness originally envisioned by Lokmanya Tilak through the festival. He stated that since Ganeshotsav has been designated a state-level festival, it is the collective responsibility of the administration, mandals, and citizens to uphold the traditions of discipline and sanctity.
The administration, Ganesh mandals, and coordination committees must collaborate effectively to ensure that Ganeshotsav is celebrated in a vibrant and orderly manner. CM Fadnavis also called for immediate solutions to any issues faced by mandals and urged the removal of shortcomings in planning.
In recent years, a systematic approach has been established for Ganeshotsav celebrations in cities like Mumbai and Pune. However, it is crucial to identify and address new challenges that arise each year. Permits related to mandals should not remain pending. CM Fadnavis instructed the administration to take proactive measures to expedite the issuance of permits, especially since most permits for older mandals are of a regular nature.
Municipal areas must ensure that the routes for the arrival and immersion of Ganesh idols are well-maintained. Special attention should be given to avoid potholes and ensure adequate lighting at night. According to Section 143 of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation Act, there is a provision for property tax exemption for offices registered in the name of trusts, provided that relevant boards apply with necessary documents. CM Fadnavis confirmed that the municipal commissioner has approved this.
The police should monitor violations related to the use of firecrackers and loudspeakers, taking strict action against offenders. CM Fadnavis reiterated that maintaining the sanctity and discipline of Ganeshotsav is a collective responsibility.
All mandals must reassess safety measures during the processions of Ganesh idols. Special instructions should be given to mandals with larger idols to ensure all arrangements are secure. CM Fadnavis assured that the state government would provide necessary support for this.
The issues faced by mandals have significantly reduced, as the High Court upheld last year’s decision regarding Ganeshotsav. The government has informed that this matter has also been brought to the attention of the High Court.
Additionally, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde urged that the government, administration, and Ganesh mandals work together to celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi in a spirit of enthusiasm, discipline, and harmony. He noted that the police, municipal corporation, and relevant departments have planned for the safe and orderly arrival and immersion of Ganesh idols, incorporating suggestions from mandals.
In Mumbai, approximately 1,850 kilometers of roads have been concreted. The municipal administration must ensure that there are no potholes on the routes for the arrival and immersion of Ganesh idols. Deputy Chief Minister Shinde stated that instructions have been given to promptly address local deficiencies. He also mentioned that actions have been taken to grant permits to mandals for five years.
Considering the possibility of rumors spreading through social media, mandal officials and workers should remain vigilant. Any suspicious activity should be reported to the police or relevant administration immediately. When transporting larger idols, it is crucial to ensure that the structure, nuts, bolts, welding, and other joints are secure.
Deputy Chief Minister Shinde also appealed for the safety of small children and devotees during the arrival and immersion processions, urging that they be kept at a safe distance from the idols. The meeting was attended by various officials, including the Minister of Skill Development, Employment, Entrepreneurship, and Innovation, Mangal Prabhat Lodha, Minister of Cultural Affairs Advocate Ashish Shelar (via video conferencing), Minister of State for Home Yogesh Kadam, Chief Secretary Rajesh Agrawal, Chairman of the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board Siddhesh Kadam, Director General of Police Sadanand Date, along with senior administrative officials from the ministry, Mumbai Municipal Corporation, and district councils, as well as representatives from Ganesh mandals.
Leave a Comment