A banner that was erected outside Indira Park in Hyderabad’s Domalguda, stating that unmarried couples will not be allowed inside, has received a severe backlash from netizens as well as youngsters.
In an attempt to prevent intimacy between young couples in the park, the management of the park had taken this decision. With many criticising the ban as unconstitutional, the management took down the banner. The ban, the officials want to enforce, has not lasted long as it reeks of moral policing.
Many pointed out that the move marked a new low and new level of moral policing, asking how could marriage be criteria for entry into a public park.
The GHMC has clarified that officers in lower ranks put the banner without their knowledge. However, the authorities said that they have asked the local police to inspect the park regularly to stop any intimacy. The officials also said they received many calls from citizens complaining about couples involved in a physical activity like cuddling, especially at night.