Karnataka: Restriction on Holi celebration likely amid increase in Covid-19 cases

Due to the increase in novel coronavirus cases across the world, many states and cities have banned either public or private Holi celebrations, or even both, to prevent the virus from spreading.

Many cities and states, including Delhi and Mumbai, have banned Holi celebrations on March 28 and 29, citing concerns about an increase in Covid-19 cases as a result of large social gatherings.

Meanwhile, in the wake of upcoming festivals and potential social gatherings, the Union Health Ministry has asked states to consider enforcing local restrictions to prevent the virus from spreading.

“May consider enforcing local restrictions in public celebrations of Holi, Shab-e-Barat, Bihu, Easter, and Eid-ul-Fitr and limit mass gatherings,” Union Health Additional Secretary wrote to Chief Secretaries/Administrators of states and UTs in a letter.

“Any lapse in ensuring strict adherence to various MOHFW SOPs released to control the spread of COVID-19 now could result in our country losing the momentum and benefits it has achieved so far in managing the virus. The key to breaking the chain of transmission and that the number of cases in the country is strict adherence to CoVID acceptable conduct in public places and gatherings “he explained.

Karnataka govt may take strict actions before Holi to avoid gathering at public places, till there is no official notification regarding the same.