City Police ban forcible Ganesh "Chanda"

Hyderabad: City Police Commissioner M. Mahendar Reddy 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 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, I prohibit forcible collection of funds in the name of religion and religious functions,” the Police Commissioner said.

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

The ban on crackers will be in force from 25th August to 6th September. The Police Commissioner said that the prohibitory orders were being issued to maintain peace and tranquility and for smooth conduct of the Ganesh festival and immersion processions.