Hyderabad Police ban forcible Ganesh "Chanda"

Hyderabad: Hyderabad Police Commissioner Anjani Kumar has imposed a ban on forcible collection of donation or "Chanda" during Ganesh Festival in the city.

"A section of the public and anti-social elements, taking advantage of the festival, as in the past, are likely to indulge in forcible collection of funds in the name of religion and religious functions and whereas forcible collection of funds is likely to create religious animosity and hatred among different communities and individuals and is also likely to result in the commission of offences and disturbance to public peace, I'm of the opinion that such forcible collection of funds, whether called donation or "Chanda" or by any other name, should not be allowed. Therefore, forcible collection of funds in the name of religion and religious functions is prohibited," the Police Commissioner said.

However, the Commissioner said that the prohibitory orders do not concern voluntary contributions given and received towards the organisation of the ceremonies relating to the festival.

In a separate order, the Police Commissioner also prohibited bursting or throwing of firecrackers on public roads and at public places during Ganesh festival.

The ban on crackers will be in force from 2nd to 12th September. The Police Commissioner appealed to the people to maintain peace and tranquillity and for smooth conduct of the Ganesh festival and immersion processions.