The Meghalaya government has issued detailed standard operating procedures (SOPs) for the upcoming puja celebrations in the state.
According to an order dated September 24 but released to the press today, the Chief Secretary, MS Rao, has issued general and specific measures to be undertaken for a safe puja season.
The generic measures include advising those over 65, persons with co-morbidities, pregnant women and children to stay at home. However, those people who have received both Covid-19 vaccine doses may attend the celebrations, the order states. It is also “desirable” that all priests, Central Puja Committee members, helpers, drummers and volunteers involved be vaccinated.
The specific SOPs mandate that pandals not be put up on PWD roads. They should also have adequate ventilation and separate entry and exits. Plenty of volunteers should be on hand to ensure that the pandals are not overcrowded (the number of visitors should not exceed 50 percent of capacity) and devotees should not be allowed to touch the idols. Only pre-packaged food and prasad may be served.
Immersion of idols should be completed by 4pm. No foot processions will be allowed. Instead, limited numbers of people will be allowed from each puja committee.