Smearing cake on the face and giving birthday bumps can land people in jail in Surat with police banning such “cruel and violent” acts that not only disturb others but also jeopardise lives.
A notification prohibiting such birthday celebrations at public places such as gardens, roads, Bus Rapid Transport System corridors and bridges was issued by Surat commissioner of police Satish Sharma on May 14. It will remain in effect till July 12.
Those found guilty of violating the order will face arrest under IPC Section 188 for “disobeying an order duly promulgated by a public servant”. The section carries a maximum punishment of a month in jail.
The notification said Surat police had taken the decision after receiving complaints. Social media messages about such birthday celebrations also prompted the police to take the action, the notification said.
College and school students throng public places late at night to celebrate birthdays, which many at times create nuisance for others, the police said.
“In the name of birthday celebrations at public places, these students forcibly apply sticky tapes, chemicals or foam on others. They even beat up each other during such celebrations. It is possible that someone would die or public property get damaged due to such cruel and violent way of celebration,” the notification said.
Surat police spokesperson P.L. Chaudhari, who has signed and issued the order, said: “The police will not take action against those who celebrate birthdays in a peaceful manner. This order is applicable to only those who create nuisance and disturb others.”