BHOPAL : To keep a vigil on anti-social elements and other criminals, Adhar cards and photo voters identity cards have been made mandatory for entering Garba pandals in the district. Garba, dandiya and other religious functions being held during ongoing Navratri celebrations continue till late night wherein people from all sections of the society participate.
There are many organisations and individuals who take advantage of such religious festivals and create nuisance.
Bhopal has been safe hideout for many terrorists. Besides, criminals too become active on this occasion. As a result, participants and devotees feel the brunt.
Before the festivities began, Hindu Utsav Samiti and other like-minded outfits had demanded to make Adhar cards, Pan cards mandatory for entering garba pandals. This demanded was raised in Peace Committee meeting, which was presided over by district collector Sudam Khade.
Sanjiv Chatuvedi, who is looking after the affair of the Abhivayakti graba, said, “It is collector’s directive to make Adhar cards and PAN cards mandatory for entry and participation in Garba and Navratri celebrations. We are simply following it. We have not made any provision for it. Collector guideline is applicable at all garba pandals.”
Hindu Utsav Samiti (HUS) president Kailash Begwani said, “We have made Adhar cards, voter identity cards mandatory to confirm the identity in case situation arises. Terrorists, criminals and anti-social elements usually take advantage of such situations. Anti-socials try to create disturbance. We want a ban on entry of such elements so that children, women and men from all sections of the society can participate in festival celebrations till late night at various places.”
Kolar Hindu Utsav Samiti convener Ravindra Yati said, “The main objective behind making Adhar and photo identity cards mandatory is to check the entry of anti-social elements. Previously, we had to work hard to identify them.”
Advocate Dr Rajesh Sharma said, “It is good decision as it will help police and administration to crack down on anti-social elements in case any disturbance is reported in the celebrations. Other communities should also follow it.”
