Kasol-Manali rave parties in forests; HC to consider objections

himachaleditor October 21, 2026 2 minutes read

Kasol-Manali rave parties in forests; HC to consider objections

Shimla, Oct 21

Himachal Pradesh, known as Devbhoomi or the land of gods and goddesses, is facing a growing social controversy over rave parties allegedly combining alcohol, drugs, dance and nudity at secluded forest venues. Such events have triggered concerns among sections of the public and environmental activists, while the judiciary has also taken note of complaints about rave parties in the state’s tourist destinations.

The Himachal Pradesh High Court is set to consider representations opposing permissions for rave parties in the Kasol and Manali areas of Kullu district, bringing the issue back into judicial focus.

A Division Bench comprising Chief Justice Gurmeet Singh Sandhawalia and Justice Bipin C. Negi, in an order dated October 16, recorded objections submitted by Harish Sharma, Pradhan of Gram Panchayat Bandraul Dev in Kullu, and Abhishek Rai, president of the Himalayan Environment Protection Society, Lower Dhalpur. The representations oppose the organisation of rave parties in the Kasol and Manali areas.

The court has listed the matter for consideration on November 19, 2026. The latest order does not impose an interim ban on rave parties or prohibit the authorities from granting permissions.

The issue has gained wider attention following earlier proceedings concerning a rave party organised near Kasol in June this year. During those proceedings, the High Court examined a report of the District Legal Services Authority, Kullu, which raised concerns about permissions granted for an event despite a police warning about the possibility of drug-related and unlawful activities.

The High Court had issued directions concerning the transfer of senior district officials, registration of an FIR, constitution of a Special Investigation Team and departmental proceedings. The Supreme Court subsequently stayed the directions relating to registration of FIRs against officials and constitution of the SIT, while requiring the State to implement the transfers.

Also Read Stays on FIR & SIT against Kullu officials; transfers remain in force in Kasol rave party case : HC

The latest representations place the question of permissions for rave parties once again before the High Court, amid concerns over public order, drug use, environmental protection and the impact of such events on Himachal Pradesh’s tourism and cultural identity.