The District Magistrate, South Goa (DM-South Goa), on February 09, 2026, issued an Order under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, prohibiting the use of indoor fireworks and pyrotechnic devices across South Goa District. The order was passed based on a report from the Superintendent of Police, South Goa, highlighting serious and imminent risks to life, property, public safety, and public tranquility arising from the use of fireworks, flame/smoke effects, and similar devices inside enclosed premises.
The order strictly prohibits the use, bursting, ignition, or operation of fireworks, pyrotechnics, sparklers, flame or smoke effects, and similar fire/smoke-generating devices inside tourist establishments, nightclubs, bars and restaurants, hotels, guesthouses, resorts, beach shacks, temporary structures, and other indoor event and entertainment venues throughout South Goa District. The prohibition applies to all organisers, event managers, institutions, and individuals. However, it does not apply to recognised religious shrines where traditional lighting or ritual practices are conducted as per customary norms. In exceptional cases, prior written permission may be granted upon submission of a detailed safety and risk-mitigation plan.
The order has been issued ex-parte due to urgency and shall remain in force for 60 days from February 09, 2026 (both days inclusive), unless withdrawn earlier. Violation of the order is punishable under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, and enforcement has been entrusted to Deputy Collectors, Sub-Divisional Magistrates, and the Police authorities of South Goa District.
[Order No. 38/2/2024/163 B.N.S.S./L&O/MAG/XII/M.O.468]
