A major controversy has arisen concerning the purported mistreatment and discriminatory practices at the Lalbaugcha Raja Ganpati pandal in Mumbai. Advocates Ashish Rai and Pankaj Kumar Mishra have filed a formal complaint with the Maharashtra State Human Rights Commission (MSHRC), also implicating the Mumbai Police Commissioner and the Maharashtra State Secretary. The core of the grievance is the VIP/Non-VIP darshan system, which is said to disadvantage ordinary devotees.
The complaint alleges that ordinary devotees, including children, women, the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and pregnant women, are subjected to waits of up to 48 hours in the same line, lacking basic amenities. The complaint also alleges that pandal management and bouncers are involved in physical altercations and use abusive language towards devotees. The complaint states that while police allow VIPs to take photographs and videos, common devotees are denied prompt darshan.
The complaint makes reference to national news reports, highlighting the risk of physical harm and stampedes, causing serious injury to many devotees. Rai and Mishra previously lodged complaints with the Mumbai Police Commissioner on September 14, 2024 and September 22, 2023, without any resultant action. Now, they are appealing to MSHRC to investigate the issue and take immediate action.
The complainants are requesting immediate investigation and action against the responsible parties. They seek the abolishment of the VIP/Non-VIP darshan system to ensure equality for all devotees under Article 14 of the Constitution. They seek appropriate arrangements to prevent disruption of ordinary devotees’ darshan when VIPs are present. They request robust security and facilities, as per Article 21, for vulnerable groups to prevent future occurrences. They propose a dedicated police administration within the pandal for immediate complaint registration. Recommendations for improved security measures to prevent repeat incidents are also included.