HC Seeks Odisha Govt’s Reply On Reopening Of Places Of Worship

Cuttack: The Orissa High Court on Monday directed the Odisha government to respond to the petition, seeking permission for opening all religious places that have remained closed or restricted for access due to COVID-19 pandemic, in 10 days.

The petitioner had challenged the decision of the government against reopening places of worship in its Unlock 4.0 guidelines and claimed that it was unconstitutional and undemocratic.

Petitioner’s lawyer Bibhuti Choudhary told the media that the bench headed by Chief Justice, Justice Mohammad Rafiq issued notices to all parties in the case.

“The Chief Justice sought a response as to why the state government had not taken any decision on its earlier order,” he said.

The HC had earlier asked the government to take a decision on reopening religious institutions for all devotees, he added.

The lawyer further said they had argued that the Supreme Court had directed the Ministry of Home Affairs to take a decision on reopening religious institutions in a similar matter.

“The court has asked the government to submit its counter in 10 days. We are hopeful that religious institutions will be allowed to open and the devotees get to have a darshan of the deities,” he added.