Meghalaya Govt issue SOPs for reopening of religious places
The Chief Secretary MS Rao has issued order for implementing the standard operating procedures (SOPs) on preventive measures to contain spread of COVID-19 in religious places or places of worship in the state.
This came soon after the state government has decided to allow re-opening of religious places across the state from June 14.
The order said as far as churches are concerned, maximum number of persons allowed during any church service should not exceed one-third the seating capacity of the church.
Further, in order to maintain the minimum distance as prescribed above, only one/two people in each pew will be allowed to be seated at maximum distance from each other. Further, one row in between two pews should be left empty, it said.
The order also asked individuals to maintain a minimum distance of 5 feet for prayers as far as feasible in Mosques, Temples, Gurudwaras and other religious places of worship.
Stating that touching of statues, idols, holy books etc, not to be allowed, it said for churches, persons may bring their hymn books and Holy Bibles and sharing is not permitted.
The order further maintained that large gatherings or congregation will continue to remain prohibited.
In view of potential threat of spread of infection, as far as feasible recorded devotional music/songs may be played and choir or singing groups should not be allowed. In churches, even while singing hymns masks should be worn at all times.
The order also asked the religious institutions to advise the people above 65 years of age, persons with comorbidities, pregnant women and children below the age of 10 years to stay at home.
It said individuals must maintain a minimum distance of 5 feet in public places, use of face covers/masks to be mandatory, practice frequent hand washing with soap, use of alcohol-based hand sanitizers, respiratory etiquettes are to be strictly followed.
The government has also appointed 4 nodal officers for any clarifications. These include Ambrose Ch. Marak, Director School Education and Literacy (Mobile No 9436730713), Bhupesh Hajong, Joint Secretary, Revenue and Disaster Management Department (9436113592), Anita Kharpor, MCS, Joint Secretary, Personnel and A.R. Department (9863067505) and Aitinolin L Mawong, Joint Secretary, Commerce & Industries Department (9436107594).
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