Sushmita Dev writes to DC Keerthi Jalli over Durga Puja SOP

All India Mahila Congress President Sushmita Dev has written an official letter to DC Cachar, Keerthi Jalli over the recently released Durga Puja SOP. In the letter, the ex-MP mentioned how recently the ceremonial opening of the ICU ward by health minister Himanta Biswa Sarma was jam packed, the authorities have announced stringent rules for the coming Puja celebration.

The letter read, “I have seen your order regulating Durga Puja in Cachar and it raises certain questions. Recently, I saw what unfolded when Health Minister Assam visited Silchar and you allowed a ceremonial opening of the new ICU wings. The occasion was jam packed with no social distancing. Starting of the new ICU was absolutely necessary but the fanfare was not if you believe that COVID is spreading and any kind of crowding is threatening the well being of the people.

Are there two sets of rules for government programs and people’s festivals.

The ICU could have been declared over a regular press meet but the administration went all out with a gathering and program. I have seen the pictures.

In all humility the Puja guidelines are devoid of logic. Some reasons are as follows: Whether the Pandal is permanent or temporary does not make a difference and maximum Puja Committees do not have permanent structure which puts them at a disadvantage. Also changing the size of the idol has no impact on the spread of the pandemic. How many devotees will manage to register.

Pooja committees are expected to maintain social distancing but Health Minister’s program shows political personalities breaking all norms of social distancing.

I hope you will reconsider your decision and consult Puja Committees and come up with a better and more practical proposal.”

Will the criticism get the administration to work on the plans again? Only time will tell.