Odisha govt relaxes restrictions on number of attendees at marriage, funeral

Bhubaneswar: As there has been decline in Covid-19 positive cases, the Odisha government today relaxed restrictions on the number participants at marriage, bratopanayan and funeral programmes.

While issuing guidelines for the month of September, Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) Pradeep Jena said people can organise marriage and bratopanayan ceremony, and funeral programmes with maximum 250 attendees. However, the SRC stated the oragniser will have to ensure that Covid protocols are adhered at the venue.

Earlier, the government had allowed maximum 50 attendees at marriage ceremony and 20 during funeral programme.

He further stated during marriage procession a maximum of 50 persons will be allowed. Members of marriage band party and light decoration have been included in the 50 number of persons who will be permitted in the marriage procession, Jena added.

The organizer of marriage, bratopanayan ceremony or funeral programme will have to get written permission from competent authority to hold the functions.

The SRC said Covid protocol such as hand hygiene, mask use and physical distance among attendees at these functions should be followed.

“We have to be careful in view of possible third wave of Covid. By following the Covid guidelines issued by the government, we will be able to reduce the coronavirus positive cases in the State,” the SRC said.

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Stringent action will be taken against persons who do not follow the Covid guidelines, he added.