Pune: Will Challenge Ganeshotsav Celebration Limits in Court, Says Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar

Reported by Varad Bhatkhande
Pimpri-Chinchwad, 31st July 2025: At a prize distribution event held at Ramkrushna More Auditorium in Pimpri-Chinchwad, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar vowed to legally challenge the restrictions imposed on Ganeshotsav celebrations this year. In his speech, he also addressed ongoing traffic issues in Pune and the nearby Hinjawadi area.

The Bombay High Court has announced several measures to make this year’s Ganeshotsav celebrations more environmentally friendly. These include restrictions on sound systems and other aspects of the festivities, which have sparked widespread opposition.

Clarifying the government’s stance during the prize distribution for last year’s Ganeshotsav competition, organized by the Shreemant Dagdusheth Halwai Sarvajanik Ganpati Trust, Ajit Pawar stated that the government will seek some relaxation of these rules in court. “The government did not impose the sound-related limitations; the court took this decision due to the problems it observed. The court also banned bullock cart races, but we fought that and got the ban lifted. We will argue strongly in court on this matter as well,” Pawar said.

Emphasizing the significance of Ganeshotsav in Maharashtra’s cultural fabric, he added, “Some leeway will be provided. Certain days are earmarked for late-night celebrations during Ganeshotsav. It is important that no wrongdoings occur by Ganesh mandal workers. Public peace must be maintained, and the celebrations should remain eco-friendly.”

To support the celebrations, Pawar announced that late-night metro services will be extended, with instructions already given to Maha Metro to facilitate this. Also present at the event were Kasba Peth MLA Hemant Rasane and other dignitaries.

Cost of Development is People’s Disappointment: Pawar

Speaking on a different topic, Pawar acknowledged the challenges posed by infrastructure development in Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad. “The government has initiated major road projects here, and it’s natural for landowners to be disappointed when their land is acquired. However, looking ahead to the city’s next 100 years, tough decisions must be made. There is no alternative to widening roads to ease traffic congestion,” he said.

He recalled similar opposition during previous road construction, saying, “When Pimpri-Chinchwad’s roads were being built, many expressed their displeasure to me directly. I understand their concerns. Development often requires difficult choices, and it’s impossible to keep everyone happy during these works.”