The Odisha government on Tuesday announced that general public will not be allowed to participate in the upcoming Republic Day celebrations in the State this year in the wake of surge in coronavirus cases as well as increased detection of the variant of concern ‘Omicron’.
“There will be no participation by the general public in the celebration. Only limited number of guests may be invited to the celebration, using e-invites, including selected Covid warriors (Doctors, Health workers and Sanitation workers),” the Home Department said today.
The Home department said only police contingents shall participate in the ceremony, but there will be no participation from students and NCC cadets.
“This year in view of the initial signs of surge in cases of COVID-19, as well as increased detection of the Variant of Concern (VoC), 'Omicron', Government of Odisha have discouraged large gatherings and prescribed other preventive measures to contain the spread of the disease,” the Home department notification read.
“In wake of the above, changes in the usual schedule are required to be undertaken to ensure maximum safely of guests and participants in the Republic Day, 2022 celebration,” it added.
The Home department stressed that the decisions taken by it may strictly be adhered to while celebrating the Republic Day.
It further said the National Flag shall be unfurled by the Chief Guest after 8.30 am. (Name of the chief guest to be intimated separately by the Home Department) followed by playing of the National Anthem.
“It is imperative that social distancing norms, wearing masks, etc., are followed strictly by those attending the function. The venue must be well sanitised and a hand sanitiser be made available at all entry points of the celebration venue,” the department added.