An AC dome Garba event associated with singer Jigardan Gadhvi on New Science City Road in Ahmedabad has sparked controversy over safety arrangements and alleged permission violations. The event reportedly went ahead without a fire department No Objection Certificate (NOC), raising questions about compliance with safety norms.
According to reports, fire department officials inspected the venue four times over three days and identified several shortcomings, including obstructed entry and exit routes, piles of garbage and exposed electrical wires near the dome. Officials also reportedly raised concerns about fire safety arrangements, including emergency exits, fire extinguishers and the use of fire-resistant materials.
Despite the reported shortcomings, Garba was held at the venue until around 1 am on Sunday. The incident has raised questions about how the event was allowed to continue despite the safety concerns.Pass-holders create a ruckus over denied entryThe controversy escalated on the second night of Navratri when several pass-holders alleged that they were kept waiting outside the venue for hours despite paying high prices for passes.
According to reports, people waiting at the gate from around 9 pm were not given a clear explanation for the delay. Frustrated by the lack of information, some allegedly pushed their way into the dome, tore posters, damaged property and raised slogans demanding refunds.Police stop event over lack of permissionPolice reportedly stopped the Garba programme on Tuesday night because the organisers did not have the required permission. While the fire department had raised concerns over safety requirements, the police reportedly withheld permission because the venue’s structural stability report had not been submitted.The episode has raised questions about why the event was allowed to take place earlier despite the reported lack of clearances and safety shortcomings.
The controversy has also highlighted the need for stricter enforcement of safety rules at large public gatherings during Navratri.