Mahalaya and Viswakarma Puja celebrations in Cachar amid strict COVID norms

Silchar: The Cachar district administration on Thursday has beefed up security in Silchar and other parts of the district in view of Viswakarma Puja and Mahalaya. Executive magistrates have been deputed to look after the areas where large gatherings are likely to happen. The administration has already issued SOPs (standard operating procedures) to be followed today during the celebrations.

Celebrations so far have been low key with devotees sticking mostly to performing the rituals and avoiding celebrations leading to large gatherings.

The administration has deputed Navanita Hazarika, Assistant Commissioner and Executive Magistrate, Bikash Chetri, Circle officer and Executive Magistrate, Kimneinem Changsen, Assistant Commissioner Cachar & Executive Magistrate, Jayanta Chakraborty, Circle Officer, Udharbond to look after specific police stations and areas of the district.

The order also stated that ''The Magistrates are assigned to take necessary steps as they deem fit and proper to deal with law and order situation and they will report directly to the District Magistrate and also Additional District Magistrate I/c Magistracy Branch from time to time about the law and order situation in their respective areas.''

Wearing masks and maintaining physical distance has been made mandatory, not more than a group of three persons are allowed to move together on the road on Mahalaya morning. Crowding at any place has been strictly prohibited. Distribution of wet prasad is not allowed by any puja committee. 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," the order stated.

Also Read: Coronavirus antibody (serology) testing free of cost held at Dhubri