All socio-religious gatherings on Bihu, Poila Baisakh, Easter prohibited

April 12: In view of the threat posed by the novel Coronavirus (COVID-19), the district administration of Cachar has prohibited all kinds of public functions in the district till 15 April. As per an order issued by the ADC Cachar on 11 April, it was stated that, “In view of the directions received from the government with regard to the ensuing festivals in the month of April 2020, strict compliance of lockdown measures will be followed. Also a ban on all sorts of social and religious gatherings/ activities will work in place till 15 April, 2020 encircling Bihu festivities, Poila Baisakh, Baisakhi, Easter and others.”

The order further stated that, “All places of worship have to be mandatorily closed for public, no religious congregation will be permitted without any exception and all social/ cultural/ religious functions/ gatherings/ processions shall be barred.”

The order which came into force with immediate effect mentioned that anybody violating it will be liable for action to be taken against him/her u/s 34(m), 51(b) of Disaster Management Act, 2005 and also under relevant section of IPC.

Further, Director General of Police, Assam has urged Bihu committees to have assembly of 5 people only to hoist the flag during Rongali Bihu in view of COVID-19 pandemic. Hoisting may be restricted to 30 minutes. ADGP (Law & Order) GP Singh tweeted: “Let this be a Bihu completely dedicated to the social good. #StayHomeSavesLives Celebrate at home. Keep society safe.”