Mumbai’s Dadar Shivaji Park residents have lodged a police complaint against the use of firecrackers during the Diwali celebration jointly attended by Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray and Maharashtra
Navnirman Sena (MNS) supremo Raj Thackeray.
The complaint cites noise and air pollution caused by the fireworks, which allegedly violated Bombay High Court guidelines.
According to reports, Raj Thackeray had invited Uddhav Thackeray and his family to the Deepotsav event.
Resident associations have demanded strict action against those responsible for violating the court order prohibiting the bursting of crackers after 10 p.m.
In their written complaint to the Shivaji Park Police Station, the residents referred to the Bombay High Court directive that allows firecrackers only between 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. They also highlighted the recurring issue of large crowds gathering each year to burst crackers, causing significant distress to residents, particularly senior citizens living in and around the park.
The complaint urges authorities to take disciplinary action in accordance with court orders against those who disregarded the time restrictions and contributed to noise and air pollution in the area.
After constant follow-ups from the residents of Shivaji Park, an order by the Bombay High Court in 2010 directed that Shivaji Park and its periphery be declared a ‘Silence Zone’.
The directive pertains to the Shivaji Park playground, which the Bombay High Court permits to be used for non-sporting activities for 45 days each year. The ground is frequently utilised for political events and rallies, particularly during festivals like Diwali and Dussehra.
Additionally, the use of loudspeakers in the area is allowed for four days a year.
