Assam’s Cachar authorities impose rules for celebration of Mahalaya, Vishwakarma Puja on Sept 17

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GUWAHATI, SEPT 17, 2020: 

The Cachar District Administration in Barak Valley has imposed strict rules for the celebration of Mahalaya and Vishwakarma Puja on Thursday given the recent spurt in COVID-19 cases.

This year, both Mahalaya and Vishwakarma will be celebrated on the same day.

"It has been made to appear before me that there is an apprehension of a rise in the number of COVID cases given unwanted crowds on September 17. It is essential to protect the gains made in the fight against COVID-19 by taking precautionary and preventive measures," a statement issued by Cachar District Deputy Commissioner Keerthi Jalli, said.

According to the restrictions, not more than a group of three persons can move together on the road on the occasion of Mahalaya on Thursday morning.

Crowding at any place has been strictly barred. "However, people are free to move on the roads within small groups comprising three persons," the order under Section 34 of Disaster Management Act, stated.

Wearing masks and maintaining physical distance will be mandatory for both Mahalaya and Vishwakarma Puja, the order said.

"People will not be allowed to roam around or accumulate in both the bridges (old and new) located at Sadarghat, Silchar from 9 pm of September 16 till 6 am on September 18. Entry will be strictly restricted at these bridges for unwanted gatherings," the order by the DC, stated.

The notification further stated that Vishwakarma Puja shall be celebrated with a maximum of 15 persons and crowding at any place is prohibited.

"Distribution of prasad is not allowed by any puja Samiti. However packed prasad (dry) is allowed. No decoration, pandals, lighting, and roadside stalls will be permitted.

"However, pitri tarpan (a ritual performed in reverence of ancestors) is allowed on banks of the river keeping all COVID-19 protocols in accordance. Violation of this order will attract punitive action," it stated.