Mumbai: Maharashtra Cultural Affairs Minister and BJP leader Ashish Shelar on Sunday alleged that certain sections seeking restrictions to the extent of demanding a ban on traditional Hindu festivals are linked to urban Naxalism.
Shelar was speaking at the 'Krishnanand Sohala' organised by the Maharashtra State Dahi Handi Govinda Association in Parel, Mumbai. The event was attended by representatives of women's and men's Dahi Handi teams, Govindas, and various organisations associated with the festival.
Dahi Handi festival is celebrated after Krishna Janmashtami, marking the birth of Lord Krishna. Participants, or Govindas, form tall human pyramids to reach and break an earthen pot filled with curd, butter, and milk.
Shelar recalled the legal battle fought by Govinda groups over restrictions on the festival and credited Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis with standing firmly with them.
"The government firmly told the court its position, and that is why we could win the battle," he said.
Shelar alleged that some organisations were repeatedly seeking restrictions on traditional Hindu festivals in Maharashtra, including Ganeshotsav, Nag Panchmi, and Dahi Handi.
"My direct allegation is that those seeking restrictions to the extent of moving towards a ban on our festivals are linked to urban Naxalism," he said.
The BJP leader said environmental concerns, public safety and traffic management must be addressed, but added that such concerns should not be used to curb traditional celebrations.
"We will take responsibility for protecting Marathi and Hindu festivals while taking all necessary precautions and addressing every concern," Shelar said.
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