Govt permits weddings in places of worship

SHILLONG: Though places of worship would continue to remain closed, the state government on Monday allowed marriages to be solemnised in churches and other places of worship.
Speaking to media persons on Monday, Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong said the government took the decision following several petitions which have been received from leaders of various religious organisations requesting the government to allow marriages to be solemnised in places of worship.
The state government had last week disallowed reopening of places of worship in the state following consultations with the religious leaders.
Tynsong said the parties have to get permission and they should submit their applications to the concerned DCs.
He added that strict protocols will have to be followed and the deputy commissioners would work out the modalities.
According to the notification issued by the state government, marriage rituals are permitted in places of worship provided that the number of guests should not exceed one third the capacity of the place of worship and individuals must keep a minimum distance of 5 feet.
Reopening of home stays
On reopening of home stays, restaurants and hotels, Tynsong said that all deputy commissioners have been asked to have consultations with the stakeholders upto the village level.
“The DCs are likely to give their feedback within a day or two and once we get the report, we will a take a call on the matter,” he said.
Stating that tourists from outside and inter-state movement will continue to be restricted, Tynsong said the daily review meeting discussed about movement of local tourists and livelihood of the people.