Shivamogga Deputy Commissioner Prabhulinga Kavalikatti
| Photo Credit: File Photo
Deputy Commissioner Prabhulinga Kavalikatti has issued an order prohibiting the use of DJ sound systems, colour paper (confetti) blasting, and bike rallies during Ganesha festival celebrations in the district for 30 days, between September 14 and October 13.In a communique to reporters on Wednesday, the Deputy Commissioner said the use of DJs, bike rallies, and bursting of paper crackers could cause harm to the public, particularly children, the elderly, and patients undergoing treatment in hospitals. Acting on the recommendation of the Superintendent of Police, he issued the order under the Karnataka Police Act, 1963, as a precautionary measure. Those violating the order will attract legal action.The Deputy Commissioner also instructed the public to take precautionary measures while carrying out Ganesha idol immersion in water bodies. Recalling a previous incident at Hadonahalli in Shivamogga taluk, in which 12 people died after the coracle carrying them to immerse an idol capsized in 2016, he said the public must follow the restrictions imposed by the district administration.Not more than three people should travel in a coracle while carrying an idol for immersion, and all those on board must compulsorily wear life jackets, he said, adding that expert swimmers should be present at the site during immersion. The order, issued under the Karnataka Police Act, 1963, will remain in effect until the completion of all Ganesha immersion processions in the district. Published - September 09, 2026 07:02 pm IST
