HUBBALLI, August 09: In a bid to strictly implement ban on PoP idols, the district administration has formed a task force to conduct raids and seize PoP idols on sale across Dharwad district.
Addressing Ganeshotsav Samiti office-bearers, idol makers and others at a sensitisation programme at Sawai Gandharva hall in Hubballi on Friday, Deputy Commissioner Divya Prabhu said task forces comprising officials of Hubballi-Dharwad Municipal Corporation (HDMC), Police, Revenue and Commercial Tax departments are formed for all wards in the twin cities and all taluks in the district to conduct raids and seize PoP idols on sale.
“Check-posts with inter-departmental coordination are being set up to prevent the entry of PoP idols into the district. Surprise check-posts would also be opened and through proper coordination with the neighbouring districts, the sale of PoP idols would be checked,” she said.
24X7 helplines have been opened to receive information from citizens about PoP idols ahead of Ganesha Chaturthi festival and other illegalities during the celebrations. Names of citizens who provide information to the helpline will not be disclosed, she added.
The DC also asked Ganeshotsav Samitis to install only clay idols to support local artists. She also informed that the officials concerned are instructed to repair roads and ensure uninterrupted electricity supply during the festival.
Police Commissioner N Shashi Kumar, Superintendent of Police Gopal Byakod, HDMC Commissioner Ishwar Ullagaddi, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Law & Order) Mahaning Nadaganvi and other officials were present.
