Durga Puja rules have been tightened across Hazaribag, while the Chatra district administration has begun fining tobacco-law violators and warned of stricter action against smoking and tobacco promotion in public places and puja pandals.
A joint team of the health department and police carried out an enforcement drive in Hunterganj block on Saturday, acting on the instructions of Chatra deputy commissioner Ravi Anand. The team, led by Hunterganj police sub-inspector Veer Bahadur Singh, inspected shops and public areas along the stretch between Kauleshwari More and Chatra bus stand.
Officials imposed fines totalling Rs 1,000 for violations of provisions under the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act. Shopkeepers were warned against illegal sale, advertisement and promotion of tobacco products and were informed about the rules governing tobacco control. The administration also appealed to residents and traders to cooperate in maintaining smoke-free public spaces during the festival.
In Hazaribag sadar subdivision, puja committees have been directed to install CCTV cameras or arrange videography at pandals, implement fire-safety measures and provide separate entry and exit gates for men and women. Committees must also obtain licences, submit details of volunteers and secure the required no-objection certificates before operating their pandals.
Sadar sub-divisional magistrate Aditya Pandey imposed restrictions under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita until October 22. The directions prohibit loudspeaker use between 10 pm and 6 am, weapons and unauthorised processions. The administration has also warned against circulating provocative content on social media, citing the need to maintain law and order during Durga Puja.
