Cuttack City Bandh On September 13 Over Durga Idol Size

Cuttack: The BJP’s Cuttack city unit will observe a bandh in the city on September 13 to protest against the several restrictions imposed by the Odisha government during Durga Puja.

Addressing a presser on Monday, Cuttack Nagar BJP president Lalatendu Badu said that there is growing discontent among people over the guidelines, particularly with regards to restrictions on the height (4 feet) of Durga idols.

He questioned the rationale behind these restrictions during Dussehra when the government has allowed all religious institutions, government and private offices, business establishments, educational institutions, auditoriums and theatres to open.

“The residents of Cuttack fully cooperated and followed all the rules and regulations imposed in view of the COVID-19 pandemic. We want to know on what basis the government has imposed several restrictions for Durga Puja,” he said.

Party senior leader Samir Dey was also present at the press meet.

On August 9, the Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) issued guidelines for Durga Puja and other festivals, limiting the size of the idol to less than 4 feet. Similarly, not more than 7 persons, including organisers (Kartas) and priests and support staff, will be allowed in Puja manpad at any given time. There will be no procession and the idols will be immersed in the artificial pond(s) created by the local administration for the purpose.

The Cuttack Municipal Corporation (CMC) recently said that no public will be allowed to participate in the puja at pandals or mandaps, which will be covered on three sides. The fourth side will be used as a passage but well covered to prevent public viewing.