A grand birthday celebration near Pune's National Defence Academy (NDA) turned into a controversy after residents of Bavdhan and neighboring areas filed complaints over noise pollution and excessive lighting. The event, hosted by Balaji Rao, owner of the Venky’s Group of Companies, featured performances by renowned artists Shankar Mahadevan, Akon, and Danish singer Whigfield.
FIR Filed Against Event Organiser
Following numerous complaints, an FIR was registered at the Bavdhan police station against Adinath Sambhaji Mate, the event organiser. The charges include violations of:
- Sections 292 and 293 of the BNS.
- The Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000.
- The Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.
- The Maharashtra Police Act, 1951.
Although the FIR named Mate, Balaji Rao and the performing artists were exempted from legal action.
Residents' Complaints
Residents alleged that the party disrupted their lives, with music and LED lights continuing until dawn. Social media posts by attendees revealed performances lasting until 5:30 am, despite the FIR noting that the event ended by 2:30 am.
Mohan Abhyankar, a Bavdhan resident, stated, “We called the police post 10 pm and during the wee hours. Despite repeated calls, no action was taken.”
The disturbances affected residents across Bavdhan, Baner, Pashan, and other areas, prompting over 100 residents to gather at the Bavdhan police station demanding immediate action.
Star-Studded Lineup
The event was a high-profile affair with Shankar Mahadevan and his son Shivam taking the stage alongside Whigfield and international artist Akon. While attendees praised the performances, the broader community was left disturbed by the loud music and bright lights.
Police Response
Senior police inspector Anil Vibhute acknowledged the complaints and confirmed that an offence had been registered following citizens' grievances. According to reports, the organiser, Mate, had obtained permission from the Pimpri-Chinchwad Police, but the apparent violations have raised concerns over the enforcement of noise pollution laws and preferential treatment for high-profile individuals.
Community Outrage
The incident has reignited debates over noise pollution regulations and the responsibilities of event organisers in ensuring compliance. Residents emphasized the need for stricter enforcement to prevent such disturbances in the future.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the balance required between hosting extravagant events and respecting the rights of local communities.
Star-Studded Party in Pune's Bavdhan Sparks Controversy
A lavish birthday celebration near Pune's National Defence Academy (NDA) has drawn widespread criticism and legal action after residents of Bavdhan and nearby areas complained about excessive noise and bright LED lights. Hosted by Balaji Rao, the owner of the Venky’s Group of Companies, the event featured performances by music icons Shankar Mahadevan, his son Shivam, international star Akon, and Danish singer Whigfield.
Residents' Complaints and Legal Action
The extravagant party, held on December 8, caused significant disturbance, prompting over 100 residents to gather at the Bavdhan police station to demand action. Complaints alleged that the event's loud music and bright lights disrupted the lives of residents in Bavdhan, Baner, Pashan, and surrounding areas.
“We called the police post 10 pm and during the wee hours. Despite repeated calls, no immediate action was taken,” said Mohan Abhyankar, a resident of Bavdhan. Social media posts from attendees indicated the performances continued until 5:30 am, contrary to the police’s claim that the event ended by 2:30 am.
FIR Filed Against Organiser
Following the complaints, an FIR was registered against Adinath Sambhaji Mate, identified as the event organiser. The charges include violations of the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000, the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, and the Maharashtra Police Act, 1951. However, Balaji Rao and the performing artists have been exempted from legal action.
The Starry Affair
The event was a high-profile celebration marking Balaji Rao’s birthday. The lineup of performers, including Shankar Mahadevan, Akon, and Whigfield, attracted attention and praise from attendees. However, the festivities left the surrounding community grappling with noise disturbances and sleepless nights.
Police and Community Reaction
Senior police inspector Anil Vibhute, attached to the Bavdhan police station, confirmed that a case had been registered against Mate. Reports suggest that Mate had obtained prior permission from the Pimpri-Chinchwad Police, but the violations during the event have raised questions about law enforcement’s effectiveness in managing such situations.
Residents Demand Stricter Regulations
The incident has reignited debates about noise pollution and the responsibilities of event organisers. Residents have urged authorities to enforce stricter penalties to prevent such disturbances in the future. The case highlights the need for a balance between hosting high-profile events and maintaining the quality of life for local communities.
This controversy serves as a reminder of the impact of grand celebrations on surrounding neighborhoods and the importance of adhering to legal and social responsibilities.
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