Paurush organization meeting on Surpanakha Dahan in Indore:May challenge High Court order by moving double bench; explores alternative effigy burning options

After the High Court’s single bench imposed a ban on burning the effigy of Shurpanakha, the organization Paurush is considering approaching the double bench.
The group has called a meeting on Sunday evening to decide whether to challenge the ruling or explore alternative ways of conducting the symbolic burning. High Court restrains effigy burning The High Court directed both organizers and administration not to burn effigies of Sonam Raghuwanshi or any other individual. The petition, filed by Sonam’s relatives and the Raghuwanshi community, argued that replacing Ravan’s effigy with Sonam’s was an act of conspiracy linked to her alleged involvement in the murder of her husband. The petitioner’s lawyer stressed that such an act violated fundamental rights and legal principles. Background of the controversy The effigy was designed to symbolize women who allegedly betrayed or killed their husbands. Earlier, in 2023, Paurush attempted to burn the effigy of a demoness to protest against issues like false dowry cases, marital harassment, and extramarital affairs. That year, however, the effigy was confiscated by police under election commission directives, since the model code of conduct was in force. Inspired by Vijayvargiya’s remarks The 2023 initiative was reportedly inspired by comments made by Kailash Vijayvargiya, now the Urban Development and Housing Minister. He had criticized Indore’s nightlife, claiming that intoxicated youth and young women’s attire made them appear like “Shurpanakha.” Congress had lodged a complaint against his statement with the Election Commission. Organization’s stand and meeting agenda Ashok Dashora, president of Paurush, said the group respects the High Court’s order and is committed to compliance. However, the meeting will evaluate multiple options. Citing NCRB data, Dashora highlighted that in the last five years, 785 men in states like Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Rajasthan, and Maharashtra were allegedly killed by their wives, with 98 such cases reported in MP alone. Options under consideration Decision expected soon With Vijayadashami falling on October 2, and only three days remaining, Paurush is expected to finalize its decision today.