Odisha: Only police personnel to take part in Republic Day ceremony this year

Bhubaneswar: During the Republic Day ceremony in Odisha this year, no student will be allowed to take part. The Odisha Home department wrote a letter the District Collectors and SPs in this regard and issued guidelines.

The Home Department directed the District Administrations to ensure no student and NCC cadet participate in the Republic Day ceremony. Only police contingents will take part in the programme. The decision has been taken in view of the Covid-19 pandemic, the letter stated.

After 8,30 AM. the National Flag will be unfurled by the Chief Guest followed by playing of the National Anthem.

Only limited number of guests will be invited to the celebration, using e-invites, including selected Covid warriors, the letter added.

“There will be no participation by the general public in the celebration,” it read.

It is imperative that social distancing norms, wearing masks, etc are followed strictly by the invited guests attending the function. The venue must be well-sanitised and a hand sanitiser be made available at all entry points of the venue.

The letter further asked the district administrations to organize online essay/quiz contests to mark the occasion.

“Similar guidelines and procedure may also be followed for celebration of the Republic Day 2021 at the Block and Panchayat levels,” it said.