Mumbai Police Issues Advisory For Holi: Know Dos And Don'ts You Must Follow

Mumbai: As India braces for Holi festivities, the Mumbai Police on Wednesday announced strict guidelines for the upcoming Dhulivandan, and Rangpanchami celebrations, set to be in effect from March 12 to March 18.

This move aims to ensure public safety and prevent any potential communal tensions during the ongoing month of Ramadan.

Also read | Holi Chaos No More: UP Police Issues Strict Guidelines. Everything You Need to Know

The new directives issued by Akbar Pathan, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Operations), prohibit public events that include obscene songs, vulgar gestures, or offensive slogans, all of which could hurt public sentiment.

Take a look at the restrictions:

• Obscene Public Utterances: No obscene songs, slogans, or words in public spaces.
• No Use of Offensive Gestures & Symbols: Displaying any offensive gestures, symbols, or pictures that may harm public dignity or morality is banned.
• Spraying Colored Water on Pedestrians: Throwing or spraying colored water or powders on people in public spaces is prohibited.
• Throwing Water Balloons: The preparation and throwing of water balloons, colored or plain, will not be allowed

Also read | Holi Safety Tips: How To Celebrate The Festival Of Colours While Staying Safe

The police warned that violators of these rules, or anyone assisting in such actions, will face legal consequences under Section 135 of the Maharashtra Police Act, 1951.

In light of the ongoing heatwave, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has also issued safety guidelines for residents, urging them to stay hydrated and follow precautions to minimize the effects of the soaring temperatures.

The guidelines, aligned with the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), were released in a late evening advisory.