SHILLONG: Independence Day celebration in the state is going to be a low-key affair sans fanfare with minimal public gathering mostly composed of COVID warriors.
The state government has made it clear that it would strictly follow the Centre’s guidelines during the upcoming Independence Day celebration on August 15.
The guidelines issued by the Home Ministry to the states, which were received by the state government on Thursday, said that in view of the spread of COVID-19, while organising various programmes or activities, “it is imperative to follow certain preventive measures such as maintaining social distancing, wearing of masks, proper sanitisation, avoiding large congregations, protecting vulnerable persons, etc”.
All programmes should be organised in a way that large congregation of people is avoided and technology is used in a best possible manner for celebration befitting the occasion.
The events organised could be web-cast in order to reach out to people at large, who are not able to participate,” the guideline stated.
It also stated that the state-level functions on the occasion may consist of a ceremony in the morning (after 9 am) in the state or union territory consisting of unfurling of the National Flag by the chief minister; playing and singing of the National Anthem; presentation of Guard of Honour by the police including Para-Military Forces, Home Guards, NCC, Scouts, etc; and speech by the chief minister.
According to the guidelines, in view of the pandemic, large congregation in the ceremony should be avoided even as it is imperative that social distancing norms, wearing of masks, etc., are followed.
“It would also be appropriate that COVID-19 warriors like doctors, health workers, sanitation workers, etc., are invited in the ceremony as recognition of their noble service in fight against COVID-19. Some persons cured from COVID-19 infection may also be invited,” the guidelines further stated.
Earlier, Chief Minister Conrad Sangma said that the government is going through the guidelines and within a day or two, details would be worked on regarding how the functions should be conducted and what activities will be permitted during the celebration.
“We will strictly follow the guidelines,” he said.
