With Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's birth anniversary falling on Wednesday (19th), the city is expected to witness grand celebrations. The upcoming local body polls may also lead to an increase in donations to public bodies from political aspirants, further intensifying the enthusiasm. In light of this, the city police have made arrangements, including procession planning and meetings with Shiv Jayanti festival committees at police stations. Authorities are instructing organisers to ensure the celebrations follow established rules.
With only a few days left, the Police Commissionerate has begun coordinating security measures. Police Commissioner Sandeep Karnik, along with Deputy Commissioners of Police Kiran Kumar Chavan and Monica Raut, is overseeing station-wise meetings with festival organizers and peace committees. A strict ban on DJ systems has been enforced, with police warning of strict action against violations. Plainclothes officers will be deployed for security, and traffic diversions will be implemented as needed. Mandals have been directed to maintain discipline and adhere to schedules for processions and other events. Drones and CCTV surveillance will monitor the processions, and the State Reserve Police Force, Home Guard, Riot Control Squad, Rapid Response Squad, and Bomb Squad will be on standby for additional support.
Important instructions include limiting sound levels, avoiding the use of gulal, and instead opting for flower showers. To maintain law and order, preventive actions are being taken against potential troublemakers in the city. Political aspirants are also expected to engage actively in the celebrations to connect with voters and youth, potentially adding to the excitement.
The main Shiv Jayanti processions will take place in Nashik Road, Panchvati, Satpur, Ambad, and Bhadrakali, with Bhadrakali and Nashik Road expected to have the largest gatherings. Accordingly, security measures are being strengthened in these areas.
"We are holding meetings with festival organisers to ensure that Shiv Jayanti celebrations take place within legal limits. Organisers must restrict sound system volume. Special branch teams and police personnel will closely monitor the festival and processions." — Kiran Kumar Chavan, Deputy Commissioner of Police, Circle-1
