Pune: The Shiv Sena has strongly opposed any proposed restrictions on speakers and loudspeakers during this year's Ganeshotsav and Ganesh immersion processions in Pune, urging the police administration to allow the festival to be celebrated with traditional enthusiasm.

A crucial meeting regarding Ganeshotsav and Ganesh immersion arrangements was held at the Pune Police Commissioner’s Office under the chairmanship of the Police Commissioner. Discussions focused on restrictions on speakers and sound systems used during immersion processions, permissible decibel levels and the process for obtaining permission for sound equipment.

Representatives of the Shiv Sena, including Maharashtra Secretary and Yuva Sena leader Kiran Sali, city secretary Sandeep Shinde, Pune city chief of Yuva Sena Hemant Bagul, Lok Sabha president Avinash Khedekar and Vishal Sarwade, attended the meeting.

During the meeting, the Shiv Sena firmly presented the concerns of Ganesh mandals. The party argued that Ganeshotsav is an integral part of Maharashtra's cultural identity and Pune's longstanding tradition, and that unnecessary restrictions should not dampen the festive spirit.

The Shiv Sena also referred to the earlier approach adopted during the tenure of Eknath Shinde as Chief Minister, stating that efforts were made to facilitate the traditional and enthusiastic celebration of Hindu festivals.

Shiv Sena Opposes Speaker Ban

The Shiv Sena made it clear that it would oppose any unnecessary ban or excessive restrictions on speakers and loudspeakers during Ganesh immersion processions.

According to the police administration, there is no proposal for a complete ban on loudspeakers. However, authorities are considering certain limits for sound systems. A preliminary proposal discussed during the meeting reportedly allows a setup comprising four bass units and four top speakers.

The Shiv Sena, however, maintained that no final decision should be taken without consulting representatives of Ganesh mandals.

The party demanded that mandals be taken into confidence and that their practical difficulties and suggestions be considered before finalising any rules or standard operating procedures (SOPs).

Demand to Implement New Rules From Next Year

The Shiv Sena further demanded that if new rules or an SOP concerning sound systems are to be introduced, they should be prepared after detailed consultations with Ganesh mandals and implemented from next year's Ganeshotsav, rather than imposing new restrictions this year.

The party called for this year's Ganeshotsav to be allowed to proceed with full enthusiasm and in accordance with traditional practices, while maintaining necessary coordination with the administration.

The Shiv Sena also stressed that Ganesh mandals should not be viewed as opponents of the administration but as important stakeholders in organising the city's annual Ganesh festival.

The party expressed confidence that the administration would take a positive decision while considering the sentiments of Ganesh mandals, Pune residents and the city's cultural traditions.