Tihar: Deusi-Bhailo allowed round the clock, no one can be forced to give dakshina

The Ministry of Home Affairs has directed district administration offices across the country to allow the traditional Deusi-Bhailo to be performed around the clock during Tihar. The directive follows a secretary-level decision taken on Monday, under which the ministry sent a circular to all districts.

The letter, issued by ministry section officer Anand Neupane, states that Deusi-Bhailo must be entirely voluntary and that no one may be pressured to give donations or dakshina. The ministry said that although the night-time deadline has been removed, the programs must remain orderly and disciplined.

The administration has been told not to allow obscene songs, dances or slogans that spread hatred against any caste, ethnicity, religion, language, gender or community. Directives have also been issued to control gambling in the name of the festival, drunken disorder in public places, and driving under the influence of intoxicants.

The ministry has urged that sound systems not be played at excessively loud volumes and that special care be taken near hospitals and old-age homes. It has also asked that public and private property be protected and the environment kept clean.

The ministry has requested citizens to immediately report any suspicious activity, accident or emergency to the police or the toll-free number.