Key points:-
• Processions, motorbike rallies should be avoided and cultural programs should be telecast through cable networks or online platforms instead of holding them in public, the guidelines said.
• Statues or portraits of Shivaji Maharaj can be garlanded in the presence of a maximum of 10 persons by observing social distancing, the government said.
• Also, blood donation camps and programs to spread awareness about COVID-19, malaria, dengue and other diseases should be organised while observing social distancing, the guidelines further read.
The spread of coronavirus, the Maharashtra government has issued guidelines for the birth anniversary of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj on February 19 and appealed to the people to not organise big gatherings or processions.
Every year, the birth of Shivaji Maharaj is celebrated with great fervour across the state. However, this year, the Uddhav Thackeray-led government wants simple celebrations.
“It is expected that Shiv Jayanti festival will be celebrated in a simple manner without coming together on a big scale to avoid the spread of COVID-19,” a statement issued by the government read.
Processions, motorbike rallies should be avoided and cultural programs should be telecast through cable networks or online platforms instead of holding them in public, the guidelines said.
Statues or portraits of Shivaji Maharaj can be garlanded in the presence of a maximum of 10 persons by observing social distancing, the government said.
Also, blood donation camps and programs to spread awareness about COVID-19, malaria, dengue and other diseases should be organised while observing social distancing, the guidelines further read.
Opposition criticises move
The opposition BJP, however, criticised the move to restrict Shiv Jayanti celebrations, saying the same government did not impose any restrictions on events such as the recently held Elgar Parishad.
Chief spokesperson of the state BJP Keshav Upadhye said that Maharashtra government is hesitating to arrest Aligarh University alumnus Sharjeel Usmani (against whom a case has been registered in Pune for allegedly making a provocative speech at Elgar Parshad conclave).
He further alleged that the government gave permission to events such as Elgar Parishad where communal statements are made. “When it comes to reopening of liquor shops or promoting nightlife, the state government seems to be not giving much thought to the pandemic,” he added.
