Adhere to SC guidelines on 'dahi-handi' or face action: Mumbai Police to organisers

The city police have asked organisers of ‘Dahi Handi’ festivities to abide by the Supreme Court guidelines during ‘Janmashtami’ tomorrow, failing which appropriate action will be taken against them.

The SC has capped the height of the human pyramid formed as part of the festival observed during ‘Janmashtami’ across Maharashtra at 20-feet. It has also barred youth below 18 years of age from taking part in it.

“We have given in written to all organisers (of Dahi Handi festival) to follow the Supreme court guidelines. We have made arrangements for video shooting of the festivities.  If any violation is found, further action will be taken as per the video footages,” Mumbai Police spokesperson Ashok Dhude told reporters here.

Asked if the celebrations will be stopped tomorrow in case of violation of the guidelines, Dhude said festivities won’t be stopped midway as it may lead to a law and order situation.

“Whatever action has to be taken, will be taken after going through the footages,” said the spokesperson.

According to Dhude, there are around 3,387 Dahi Handi Mandals across the megapolis.

“Efforts are being made to cover most of these Mandals through videography. We have given the Supreme court’s order to all police stations. Senior Inspectors of all police stations have been instructed to ensure that the guidelines are followed in their area,” he said. He added that security has been beefed up in view of the festival.