Deserted Church on X-mas, public entry barred due to COVID-19

Dec. 25: Christmas attracts huge public gathering in all the churches of Barak Valley. Not only the Christians but people belonging to various religious communities are seen to come to the church on 25 December in huge numbers.

However, 2021 was a rare exception. All churches in Silchar gave a deserted look. The church authorities informed earlier that due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, they won’t allow any public gathering.

The Catholic Church near Silchar Holy Cross School displayed a notice on its gate, which reads, “Due to COVID-19 no X-Mas gathering. Entry restricted. Inconvenience regretted. ”

Many have opined that the threat given by the Bajrang Dal as regards celebration of Christmas acted as the main cause for the Church authorities to restrict public access ‘fearing any attack’ on the gathering. However, the church authorities have negated such claim and said that the decision to prohibit public gathering in the churches on Christmas was a decision taken purely keeping in mind about public health in the face of COVID-19.

However, that could hardly dampen the spirit of the people of Silchar. Children dressed as Santa Claus could be seen enjoying at the food joints of Goldighi Mall and other restaurants of the town.