* COVID-guidelines mandatory n Limited entry to be permitted
* Fresh lockdown may lead to fund crunch: Xattradhikar
STAFF REPORTER
GUWAHATI: The xattras (neo-Vaishnavite religious places) across the State will be reopened for the public from Monday onwards; but all will have to follow the COVID-19 guidelines issued by the Government of India for 'Unlock-1.0'.
However, there are apprehensions that if there is fresh lockdown in the days to come, the xattras would be facing acute financial crisis.
Talking to The Sentinel, Xattradhikar of Sri Sri Auniati Xattra in Majuli, Dr Pitambar Dev Goswami said, "Our xattra remained closed since the commencement of lockdown from March 24 midnight. The daily prayers were only conducted maintaining social distancing. As per the government permission, we'll open our xattra for the devotees from Monday onwards. However, only a limited number of people wearing face masks will be allowed entry. Meanwhile, all steps have been taken to ensure health and hygiene."
Reacting to a question on any problems being faced by the xattra management during the prolonged lockdown period, He said, "We could tide over the financial crisis during these phases. But if fresh lockdown is declared then we'll be encountering a fund crunch especially in meeting the daily expenditures. Then, the State government will have to think about the xattras." The Xattradhikar further informed, "The Sri Sri Auniati Xattra has to incur around Rs 2 lakh monthly for day-to-day activities under normal circumstances".
Meanwhile the general secretary of Asom Sattra Mahasabha, Kusum Kumar Mahanta has appealed to all the xattras to ensure that the COVID-19 guidelines are strictly followed while allowing devotees to visit these religious places.
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