The residential society had set restrictions on Diwali lighting and decoration in communal areas which were met with resistance from residents
Team Clarion
NEW DELHI –– A residential society in Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra, has been in the spotlight due to rising communal tension concerning the celebration of Diwali. Specifically, disagreements over the display of lights and decorations have escalated, bringing attention to broader social and cultural sensitivities within shared living spaces.
Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, involves decorating homes with lights, diyas, rangoli, and often culminates in social gatherings and fireworks. However, in Navi Mumbai’s multicultural and multi-religious environment, varying beliefs and practices have led to conflicts within two communities.
Videos of members of two communities arguing have gone viral. The incident occurred on October 30, at Panchanand Society in Taloja Sector 9, ​​Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra, according to media reports.
Reports indicate that the management committee of a residential society in Navi Mumbai had set restrictions on Diwali lighting and decoration in communal areas, citing reasons related to inclusivity and concerns over excessive noise and fire hazards. These restrictions were met with resistance from residents who wished to celebrate Diwali in a traditional and festive manner, including the decoration of common spaces.
The imposition of these restrictions has intensified underlying religious and communal tensions, as some residents perceived the measures as discriminatory. Protests erupted, with residents arguing that the restrictions infringed upon their cultural practices and religious freedoms. Others supported the regulations, citing the need to maintain harmony in a diverse society.
The argument reportedly started when Muslim residents of the society allegedly objected to lighting up the public areas and roads within the society for the Diwali festival. Both sides could be heard using offensive language in the viral videos.
Muslims’ Objection?
Earlier in June, the Hindu residents of the society had reportedly objected to Muslims bringing goats into the premises and slaughtering them. This is why the Muslim residents now allegedly objected to the lighting up of society on Diwali.
In the June meeting ahead of Bakri Eid, the Panchananda Society members had reportedly decided that no festival or cultural activity would be celebrated in the common areas. Due to this decision, the Muslim residents demanded that the decision taken in the June 2024 meeting should be implemented by the society office-bearers.
In response to the growing tensions, local authorities, including representatives from the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC), as well as community leaders, were called upon to mediate. Meetings were arranged between society residents, committee members, and religious leaders to promote dialogue and understanding.
Some residents have suggested implementing neutral guidelines that allow for traditional celebrations while respecting shared spaces and reducing disturbances. The management committee has also proposed dedicating specific areas for decorations and setting permissible timings for lighting displays.
According to reports, the society chairman and some other members had objected to the violation of set guidelines to be followed while celebrating festive occasions
