New Delhi: The Supreme Court today directed that no child below the age of 12 years will be permitted to participate in forming human pyramids during the popular 'Dahi Handi' festival, while keeping on hold a Bombay High Court order which barred participation of children under 18.

The apex court also said that state authorities should ensure that the festival be allowed subject to the condition that the organisers follow all guidelines containing safety measures, recommended by Maharashtra State Commission for Protection of Child Rights, are followed.