After the Supreme Court raised concerns over wastage of food and water at big fat wedding functions in the National Capital, the Delhi Government has drafted a policy that lays down strict guidelines for any ‘social functions’ in the city.
The new policy allows people to invite only a limited number of guests, depending upon the size of the venue and the parking space available. The maximum number of guests will be decided by dividing the square metre area of the site by 1.5 or multiplying the total number of cars parked by four.
To avoid traffic congestion, no roadside parking shall be entertained, and only the ones parked according to capacity shall be allowed to be a part of the wedding.
The policy also directs organisers to register with an NGO and distribute surplus food among the underprivileged and even maintain good quality. It discourages wastage of excess food and demands proof for the distribution of the excess food.
The use of horse-carriages, bands and firearms shall be banned, and the organisers will have to strictly comply with pollution norms. The organisers will also have to submit no-objection certificates from the fire department. This will be applicable for temporary structures as well as tents and others built on open spaces.
A formal power connection for all events from the concerned distribution company will also be mandatory, and the use of diesel generators will only be permitted in case of a power failure.
In the view of alarming environmental concerns, the draft policy points at mandatory waste segregation at the venues. A mini-sewage treatment plant at the venue to ensure wastewater shall also be used for non-potable means.
In case of violations, provisions for hefty penalties have been laid down in the draft policy for the operators of the venues and not the host. Rs 5 lakh for the first offence, Rs 10 lakh for the second and Rs 15 lakh for the third and any subsequent offence. The third offence will also attract cancellation of the licence after 30 days. Hosting of any such event at an unauthorised place will invite a penalty of Rs 15 lakh and sealing of the premises.
The State Government had formed a committee constituting Principal Secretary for Urban Development, Principal Secretary For Health, Chief Executive Officer of Delhi Jal Board and Member Secretary Of Delhi Pollution Control Committee to draft the social function policy.
The policy entrusts agencies like Delhi Police, excise department, department of food safety, building department, DPCC and urban local bodies with enforcement.
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