Commissionerate police on Monday directed artisans and puja committees in Cuttack not to distort the shape of idols of Lord Ganesha for the upcoming Ganesh Chaturthi on August 31.

“Artisans, puja pandals and clubs have been asked not to make distorted Lord Ganesha idols which can hurt the religious sentiments and create a law and order situation, Cuttack DCP Pinak Mishra said.

“Strict action will be taken if anybody is found violating the directions. Criminal cases can be registered against those involved in such work,” he added. The advisory follows after a police team recently visited Silpi Kumhar Sahi after receiving complaints that some idol makers were allegedly making distorted idols of Lord Ganesha and told the artisans to destroy them. At least 1,200 Ganesha idols will be worshipped in the city this year.

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