Udupi: Students allegedly engaged in dangerous firecracker celebrations at a public place in Manipal during Deepavali, triggering concern among local residents. The youngsters reportedly burst crackers on roads and threw lit firecrackers onto the streets while vehicles were moving through the area, putting motorists and pedestrians at risk.
The incident has renewed concerns about public safety and the conduct of some students during celebrations. Residents have urged the Manipal police to identify those involved and take strict action against them.
Firecrackers burst amid moving traffic
According to local reports, some youngsters were seen lighting firecrackers and throwing them onto the road while traffic was moving. The activity allegedly continued as part of their Deepavali celebrations, creating an unsafe situation for other road users.
Such behaviour can put vehicle occupants, pedestrians and the people bursting crackers themselves at risk. Residents have questioned the need to celebrate by creating difficulties for others and endangering public safety.
Earlier incidents during farewell celebrations
The latest incident has also brought attention to an earlier controversy involving students in Manipal.
On November 5, a video showing students allegedly performing vehicle burnouts and setting off sparklers on a car during farewell celebrations circulated on social media. The group was also reportedly seen driving around the town with loud music.
That incident had raised concerns about dangerous celebrations on public roads. The recurrence of similar complaints during Deepavali has added to residents’ worries about public behaviour in the educational town.
Residents question lack of strict action
Local residents have expressed concern over what they describe as repeated violations of rules in Manipal. They have questioned whether there is sufficient police monitoring and why strict action has not been taken against those allegedly involved in such activities.
Residents have also raised concerns about whether the fear of police action has diminished among some youngsters, given the repeated incidents reported in the area.
They have urged the authorities to increase surveillance and take appropriate legal action against anyone found violating public safety rules.
Public safety should not be compromised during celebrations
The incident has once again highlighted the risks of bursting firecrackers on public roads, particularly when vehicles and pedestrians are present.
Karnataka Police had issued Deepavali guidelines restricting firecracker use to the permitted hours of 8 pm to 10 pm and advising people not to burst crackers in public places, crowded areas or near vehicles. The guidelines also warned that violations could invite legal action.
Residents have urged the Manipal police to investigate the latest incident, identify those responsible and ensure that similar incidents do not recur. They say festive celebrations should not come at the cost of other people’s safety and convenience.