Begin typing your search above and press return to search.

SOP on Durga Puja triggers controversy, Cachar admin to hold consultation

By STAFF CORRESPONDENT

SILCHAR, Oct 3: Ahead of the Durga Puja festivities amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) issued by the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) Cachar headed by Deputy Commissioner Keerthi Jalli has triggered controversy and has drawn strong repercussions from people and also on social media.

The SOP issued under Section 34 of the Disaster Management Act 2005, on Friday which is in continuation of the letter no ASDMA 24/2020/Pt-I/119 dated 16-09-2020 issued from the Chief Secretary, Government of Assam, has labelled a host of restrictions in celebrating Durga Puja, including prohibition on temporary puja pandals, maximum of five persons allowed for carrying the idols following the COVID-19 protocol, fixed timing for opening and closing of Puja premises from 5 am till 10 pm starting from Mahapanchami to Mahanabami, idols which must be prepared within five feet in size to be worshipped in one single frame etc.

Further, the SOP has also stated that Pushpanjali may be allowed for devotees in small group of 5-10 persons maintaining social distancing.

Netizens have raised voices of dissatisfaction and demanded that the administration must have a relook into the points.

Asked about her reactions on the issue, Deputy Commissioner Keerthi Jalli told The Assam Tribune, "we are having a consultation on the issue."

Next Story