Mangaluru: KPCC general secretary Padmaraj R Poojary stated that the Congress govt has not imposed restrictions on Hindu festivals in Dakshina Kannada and Udupi. He told reporters on Friday, that the BJP has been creating confusion.“The concerns raised by MLAs in the assembly claiming that Hindu festivals are being obstructed in the coastal districts are completely false. The BJP, which has been politicising religious issues, is now making baseless allegations regarding Hindu festivals. In fact, there has never been any obstruction from the state govt when festivals are celebrated with faith and devotion,” said Poojary, who is also an office bearer of the Kudroli Sri Gokarnanatha Temple.It was during the BJP govt that restrictions regarding timings for festivals were introduced following the Supreme Court judgment. Hence, officials have the responsibility to ensure compliance. However, the district administration and police were allowing celebrations respecting the religious sentiments, and the same will continue. He said celebrations during festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi and Dasara will continue without any hindrance this year too.“I have met the city police commissioner and discussed the matter. The commissioner has made it very clear that within the legal framework, there will be no objection to celebrations. The only restriction is on loud DJ music, which does not align with our cultural traditions and has long been opposed. The commissioner has said that strict action will be taken only against DJ music, not against religious festivities,” said Poojary.Sri Krishna Janmashtami celebrations, including processions, went on till 2 am despite the deadline being 11 pm without causing any trouble. The organisers were asked only to follow the law, obtain permissions, and ensure the peaceful celebration of festivals. Hence, the MLAs should concentrate more on major issues pertaining to the development of their respective constituencies instead of creating confusion by spreading falsehoods, he added. District Congress Committee president Harish Kumar was present.
