Navratri celebrations can continue until midnight in Delhi: CM Rekha Gupta

Delhi CM Rekha Gupta allows Ramleela and Durga Puja celebrations till midnight.

Delhi’s chief minister, Rekha Gupta, announced on Tuesday that cultural events such as Ramleela and Durga Puja can now continue until midnight. The decision, she stated, is a step towards bringing "Ram-rajya" to the capital.

The move follows the formal approval granted by Lieutenant Governor V K Saxena on Monday. It provides a significant extension to the previous 10 pm deadline for such festivities.

Chief Minister Gupta framed the decision as a matter of religious and cultural fairness. As per a report by TOI, she questioned the earlier constraints placed on Hindu festivals.

"I’ve always noticed that our Hindu festivals face unnecessary restrictions," Gupta said. "Ram Leela or Durga Puja cannot be forced to end by 10 pm. If Gujarat can host Dandiya all night, why should Delhiites be deprived?"

She confirmed the new policy, "That is why this time we have given permission till 12 am. All the Ramleela, Durga Puja and other cultural programmes can take place till midnight now."

The official relaxation covers the use of loudspeakers and public address systems. It is effective for a specific period from September 22 to  October 3.

This window encompasses several major festivals including Durga Puja, Dussehra and the related Ramleela performances.

According to the TOI report, the extension must still comply with Noise Pollution Rules. In residential areas, organisers are mandated to keep sound levels below 45 decibels.

The decision has been welcomed by other government figures. Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa described it as a long-standing demand of Ramleela committees. Sirsa thanked both the chief minister and the lieutenant governor for approving the move.