Odisha: Section-144 imposed at 5 temples in view of Sabitri Brata

Jajpur: To avoid crowd at temples on the occasion of Sabitri Brata tomorrow amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Jajpur district administration imposed prohibitory orders under Section-144 of CrPC in and around five temples.

The restriction has been imposed on the premises of Maa Biraja temple, Jagannath temple at Jajpur, Maa Mangala temple at Jaunlibandha, Sriram temple at Mansapola and Barahanath temple to restrain women devotees from mass gathering for the festival.

“The possible huge congregation might violate the COVID-19 safety guidelines imposed earlier by the Government which will result in transmission of the deadly virus. Hence, Section-144 has been imposed in and around the five temples for 24 hours with effect from midnight today,” said  Collector Jyotishankar Mohapatra.

However, priests/Sevayats will be allowed to perform the rituals of the temples as per custom and tradition, he added.

Besides, Jajpur police station IIC has been directed to promulgate the order in the prohibited areas and keep a close watch to avoid any untoward situation.