Odisha February Guidelines: Saraswati Puja Allowed At Educational Institutions; Offices To Run With Full Strength

The Odisha government on Monday released the fresh set of unlock measures which will remain in force across the State for the month of February.

Apart from revising the timing of night curfew in all urban areas, the State government has issued certain restrictions on the observance of several festivals including Saraswati puja, Magha Saptami/ Magha Purnima.

As per the guidelines issued by the Special Relief Commissioner (SRC), Saraswati Puja shall be observed with all rituals in the temples and religious places without the participation of devotees.

However, Saraswati puja has been allowed to be observed at all education institutions with participation of limited number of students and strict compliance of the Covid-19 protocols. However, no Saraswati Puja will be allowed to be celebrated in public places other than in schools and educational institutions.

“People are advised to perform the rituals/puja on the occasion of Saraswati Puja at home with family members only avoiding mass gatherings and adhering to the COVID-19 safety protocols such as physical distancing, use of face mask/ covering and hand washing/ hand sanitizer. No community feast associated with puja/festivals during the period shall be allowed. There shall be no musical or any other entertainment programme on the occasion of Saraswati Puja,” the guidelines read.

Similarly, large Congregations at river banks/ ghats/ ponds/ seashore or near other water bodies to take bath on the occasion of Magha Saptami/ Magha Purnima and on the day following shall remain prohibited throughout the State. However, the rituals on Magha Mela/ Magha Saptami are allowed inside the temple without the participation of devotees. Religious congregations/ celebrations are strictly prohibited.

As per the SRC guidelines, all offices under the control and superintendence of Odisha government, public undertakings/ corporations/Societies/ Autonomous Bodies shall operate with 100 percent staff with strict adherence to Covid protocols.

However, the GA &PG department will issue detailed guidelines/ SOP regarding attendance of officers and staff.
Virtual/online meetings and trainings shall be encouraged, the guidelines added.