Murli Mohol, BJP corporator and city president of the BJYM, said, “We are opposing V-Day celebrations, which degrades our culture.”

The Hindu Janjagruti Samiti (HJS) will distribute pamphlets explaining the ‘problems’ caused by such celebrations. “At a time when the problem of terrorism is at its peak, it is sad that our youngsters are celebrating Valentine’s Day. We are urging the youth to arrange patriotic programmes on February 16, the death anniversary of freedom fighter Vasudev Balwant Phadke, and February 26, the death anniversary of Veer Savarkar,” said Sunil Ghanwat, HJS city spokesman.

“True love can be expressed on any day. Keeping a particular day for expressing love encourages hedonism,” Ghanwat said.

Joint commissioner of police Rajendra Sonawne said measures will be in place. “Action will be taken against those violating law and order. Colleges and other areas will be monitored,” he said.

Ravindra Pardeshi, principal of Fergusson College, said, “We have instructed our staff and guards to be wary. We have also told our students to maintain discipline.”

Bhagwan Thakur, principal of Nowrosjee Wadia College, said, “We will have additional security in our college.”