Diwali & Kali Puja to be observed with certain restrictions in Assam's Hailakandi -- Check details here
- Nov 13, 2020,
- Updated Nov 13, 2020, 12:48 AM IST
HAILAKANDI: Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic situation, the district administration of Hailakandi in Assam has imposed certain restrictions during Kali Puja and Diwali festivities. The order to this effect has been imposed with "immediate effect."
In an order issued to this effect here on Thursday, Deputy Commissioner cum Chairman Megh Nidhi Dahal stated that only 20 persons would be allowed at a time inside Kali puja premises maintaining social distancing, wearing masks, and other COVID-19 protocols.
The order stated that the puja committees would observe only religious rituals with "no extravagant decorations and lighting of pandals."
It asked all the committee members and volunteers, including priests to undergo swab test for COVID-19.
It also prohibited mela, cultural events, competitions, procession and temporary stalls in the vicinity of puja pandals.
The order asked the Kali puja organizing committees to arrange for proper sanitization of the premises and thermal screening of the devotees at the entrance of the puja pandal.
It also stated that not more than five persons per committee would be allowed to carry the Kali idol to the immersion ghat.
The order prohibits the bursting of loud crackers in public places and imposes restriction on sale and purchase of such fireworks.
Moreover, the use of loudspeakers beyond the permitted decibel level is strictly prohibited.
The order warned that anyone found violating the instructions would be dealt with severely under the relevant sections of the Disaster Management Act, 2005, and Indian Penal Code.
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