The Madhya Pradesh government has directed Garba organisers to allow people to enter the dance pandal only after checking their identity cards.

“Navratri, the festival of worship of Maa Durga, is the centre of our faith. In a bid to maintain peace and harmony on such a holy occasion, the organisers have been instructed to provide entry in the Garba events only after checking the ID cards,” state Home Minister Narottam Mishra told reporters .

Mishra, who is the state government’s spokesperson, said the identity cards of people should be checked to avoid any unpleasant situation on such an occasion.

The minister further said that everyone can come to offer prayers to the Goddess, PTI reported.

The decision comes days after Madhya Pradesh minister Usha Thakur claimed such events had become a means of “love jihad”.

Thakur, who is Culture Minister in the BJP-ruled state, said those who come to Garbas should bring their identity proofs to prevent “love jihad”.

“Now Garba organisers are watchful. Those who come to Garbas should bring identity cards. No one (should be allowed) without identity cards. This is an advice for all. Garbas had become a means of love jihad. That is why we want to ensure that no one enters a garba pandal by hiding his identity. This is an advice as well as a warning,” the BJP leader said while talking to reporters.

She later said that Muslims are most welcome to Garba pandals, provided they have faith in idol worship.

“Muslim men, who have faith in pursuing idol worship will only be welcomed at Garba venues if they come along with their female family members,” she added.

Garba is a traditional dance performed during the nine-day Hindu festival of goddess Durga which began from Monday.

“Love jihad” is a term used by Hindu right-wing groups, dubbing it a conspiracy where Hindu girls are allegedly lured by men from the Muslim community and forced to convert into Islam upon marriage.