Khandagiri Jatra: Commissionerate Police issues set of 14 strict guidelines

In a move to ensure smooth and disciplined conduct of Khandagiri Jatra (theatre), the Commissionerate Police-Bhubaneswar issued a set of 14 strict guidelines and served notices to jatra organising committees on Sunday. The rules aim to maintain law and order, public safety and social harmony during the annual event.

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As per the directives issued by Khandagiri Police, any form of nude dance, obscene acts or provocative performances during the jatra has been strictly prohibited. Organisers have been instructed to provide at least six emergency entry and exit routes near the jatra pandal to handle crowd movement and emergencies.

The police have also made it clear that pandals must not exceed the size permitted under the licence issued. Accordingly, the organisers have to make provision for the approved number of seats. Adequate fire safety equipment and proper parking arrangements are mandatory. Organisers have been directed to ensure that sound levels do not exceed the prescribed decibel limits.

Performances or visuals that hurt religious sentiments, target any community or caste, or cause harm to animals have been banned. Adequate volunteers must be deployed for the convenience and safety of spectators.

The jatra committees have been barred from allowing temporary roadside vendors within the jatra premises. Use or promotion of intoxicants and gambling inside the jatra grounds has also been strictly prohibited.

Police officials warned that violations of these norms would invite strict legal action.

“Jatra committees here are conscientious, and they all have agreed. We have also issued guidelines to them restricting the performance of any nude dance or obscene act during the jatra,” ACP Zone 3, Tapas Pradhan, said while speaking to mediapersons.

“The committees have assured us to strictly adhere to our guidelines,” the ACP added.