Kolkata: Blaming communists for complaints about excessive firecracker noise during Kali Puja and Diwali, chief minister Suvendu Adhikari on Monday defended the govt’s handling of noise pollution, claiming it was largely under control.“The communists are doing it,” Adhikari said about allegations of widespread violations. He maintained that the state administration had taken all necessary measures in accordance with Supreme Court directives to regulate firecrackers. Acknowledging that some had been burst after 10 pm, he said police had taken action against violators.“We don’t want pollution. But what is the problem when people want to enjoy Deepawali with lights and green crackers? In reality, some people are uncomfortable because of the resurgence of Sanatan traditions,” the CM said.Speaking on the sidelines of a programme in Digha, Adhikari accused critics of earlier reducing Hindu religious festivals to cultural programmes while distancing themselves from religious practices. Referring to traditional Hindu symbols and rituals, he said such people did not wear tilak, tie the Bipattarini thread or wear tulsi beads.“But we have controlled the situation. PCB, police and NGOs are on the roads. Large volumes (of crackers) have been seized. Many cases have been lodged. Police can’t be deployed outside every house and flat. But we have tried,” the CM claimed.He also said fires had broken out at three-four locations during the celebrations, but the administration had responded promptly and no injuries were reported.The CM also sought credit for curbing DJ music during the festive celebrations across the state. “While people are criticising us because firecrackers were burst for an additional hour, the govt should also be appreciated for stopping DJs. I don’t know whether a DJ was being played in a remote area by someone; I, at least, did not hear any DJ being played along the roadside,” he said.
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