Bhubaneswar:  Orissa High Court (HC) today refused to intervene in the State Government's decision to not conduct Ratha Jatra of Lord Jagannath at multiple places other than Puri this year in view of COVID-19 pandemic.

Worth mentioning, writ petitions were filed in the HC seeking permission for holding of the festival at multiple temples, including Baldevjew in Kendrapada district.

Today,  the court refused to intervene in the matter by quashing all the pleas.

Earlier this month, the state Government cancelled Ratha Jatra in all parts of the state, except Puri in view of the prevailing COVID-19 pandemic. However,  rituals relating to the annual festival may be performed in the respective temple premises.

Like last year, Ratha Jatra in Puri will be held sans devotees and in adherence to all COVID-19 safety norms.