Decision to submit representation regarding problems faced by Ganesh Mandals

Nandurbar : Hindu Janajagruti Samiti (HJS) took initiative in setting up ‘Sarvajanik Shri Ganeshotsav Maha-Mandal’ for coordinating with various Ganesh Mandals in the city. It was decided in the meeting held in the background of forthcoming Shri Ganeshotsav to submit representation on all problems faced during celebration of this festival and their various demands. The meeting was held on 23rd July to discuss problems faced by Ganesh Mandals and difficulties in obtaining different permissions.

Problems and demands as listed in the representation

1.Permission required by Ganesh Mandals related to different departments is now given through one window system but it has not been effectively implemented in some of the ‘talukas’. It should be made applicable to all ‘talukas’ and all Ganeshotsav Mandals should be given information on this procedure.

2. Submitting affidavit has been made mandatory for Ganeshotsav Mandals while obtaining permissions. Such oppressive condition should be cancelled.

3. It should not be mandatory for concerned Ganshotsav Mandal to fill up application.

4. during the period of festival and even at other times, meat is sold in the open which should be permanently stopped and stringent legal action should be taken for violation.

5. Meeting should be held urgently with officers from offices of District Collector, Superintendent of Police, Tehasildar, local police inspector, electricity Distribution Company  regarding Ganeshotsav arrangements.

6. Many people throw idols directly from the bridge of River Tapi at Prakasha since there is no way to go to bank of the river, for immersion. Last year, the local administration had made arrangements for devotees to immerse idols in flowing water. This year too, such provision may be made and enough light may be provided.

7. In view of bad condition of roads leading to accidents on the route of immersion place; the roads should be repaired. At crowded places, barricades may be placed for prohibiting entry on the road and measures should be taken for moving of stray animals in the area.

8. During the festival period or on the day of immersion, disconnection of power supply of streetlights or load shedding should be stopped. Municipality should be asked to repair all street lights.

9. Preventive action should be taken against eve-teasers during Ganeshotav and ‘Damini’ squad should be deployed for security.

10. Ban should be imposed on anti-Dharma acts like donation of idols, erection of artificial water tanks and idols and ‘nirmalya (offered stale flowers etc) carried in garbage vans.

11. Green Tribunal has stated that idols made from paper pulp cause pollution; therefore, sale of idols made of paper pulp should be banned.