AHMEDABAD: After barring devotees’ participation in the 144th Rath Yatra because of the Covid risk, the state government has escalated safety protocols by banning people from gathering on balconies or terraces to view the procession.
According to a circular issued by the eight police stations falling on the yatra route, people have been told not to invite guests to witness the annual chariot festival.
“Do not gather or move on your balconies or terraces, on streets or lanes, or in pols,” the circular reads. “Do not gather crowds by inviting guests or relatives to your homes to get a glimpse of the Rath Yatra.”
The circular says that if the instructions are not followed, legal action will be taken. “Gathering in large numbers on terraces or balconies may be considered a violation of Covid norms,” the circular says.
Usually, legions of people try to get a glimpse of the deities from their homes, waiting for hours on balconies or terraces. In many places, people normally shower petals on the chariots and on the stars of the procession such as bodybuilders. But this time, people can’t follow their yatra rituals. If a person violates the norms, he or she will be charged under IPC Section 188 for disobeying a public servant’s order. The Epidemic Diseases Act and the Disaster Management Act can also be invoked.
The circular also says, “No one is allowed to set up stalls offering water, cold drinks, or any kind of food on the route of the Rath Yatra.” The circular adds: “No makeshift structures will be erected anywhere on the route of the Rath Yatra.”
These rules will be implemented in the areas coming under the police stations of Kalupur, Madhavpura, Shaherkotda, Karanj, Dariapur, Gaekwad Haveli, Khadia, and Kagdapith.
