Chirang prepares to observe Independence Day maintaining social-distancing norms

OUR CORRESPONDENT

KOKRAJHAR: As per guidelines given by the Union Home Ministry, the Chirang district administration has decided to celebrate the ensuing 74th Independence Day, 2020 on August 15 with strict observation of social distancing norms here at the district parade ground.

This decision was taken in a meeting held under the chairmanship of Deputy Commissioner of Chirang, Gautam Talukdar here in the conference hall of the Deputy Commissioner's office on Monday, where Additional Deputy Commissioners Biswajit Goswami, Karmadev Brahma, RingkhangMushahary, officials from district police, para military forces, district administration and various departments were present.

Addressing the meeting, the Deputy Commissioner Talukdar outlined the guidelines issued by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs for celebration of Independence Day in 2020. He pointed out that unlike other years, people from all walks of life would not be able to participate in this year's Independence Day celebration as it would be conducted with curtailed programme by arranging limited seats for limited guests and invitees in view of the spread of COVID-19 pandemic. "Like previous years, students and public will not be invited in the programme and as such, cultural programme and band display by students will not be held," he said.

However, as it was advised by the Union Home Ministry, the meeting has decided to dedicate this year's Independence Day celebration to all corona fighters, including doctors, para medical staff, nurses, other health workers including police and security personnel. It was resolved to invite them in the programme and to honour them in recognition of their contribution and hard work in the fight against the coronavirus.

Stressing certain preventive measures to be followed for COVID-19 pandemic during the celebration of Independence Day, he directed the Joint Director Health Services to arrange a COVID-19 testing mechanism at the main entrance gate for conducting mandatory COVID-19 test of all people entering the parade ground on that day. "All people, including guests and invitees, will be tested for COVID-19 by using the Rapid Antigen Test before entering the main venue," the DC said.

He also requested all the members present to ensure maintaining social distancing, wearing of face mask, avoiding large gatherings, restricting vulnerable people, cleanliness for preventing the further spread of COVID-19 disease in the district.

The Independence Day celebration in Chirang district this year will start with homage to martyrs by the chief guest, presentation of guard of honour by Assam Police and armed forces, unfurling of the National Flag followed by national anthem and speech by chief guest as per decision taken in the meeting.

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