“You and I are not the people who can predict the Covid-19 situation. Don’t poke your knowledge into this matter. Let the government decide,” the CJI said, Bar and Bench reported
The Supreme Court on Tuesday dismissed a batch of petitions filed by various people challenging an order by the Odisha government to disallow the Rath Yatra festival in temples across Odisha except in Puri, given the prevailing COVID-19 situation.
SC doesnt allow Rath Yatra across Odisha except at Puri Jagannath temple. Odisha govt permitted the Yatra only at Puri and allowed rituals within temple premises of all other Jagannath temples.
— bhadra Sinha (@BhadraSinha) July 6, 2021
A Bench headed by Chief Justice of India (CJI) NV Ramana said that while it feels bad about the government order, it is a policy decision by the State and Court cannot interfere as it lacks expertise on such issues
“You and I are not the people who can predict the Covid-19 situation. Don’t poke your knowledge into this matter. Let the government decide,” the CJI said, Bar and Bench reported
The CJI also expressed hope that the Ratha Yatra happens next year.
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“I also feel bad but we cannot do anything. We hope and trust god will allow next Rath Yatra at least,” the CJI remarked.
“I also go to Puri every year… but have not gone for the last one-and-a-half years. I do puja at home… it can be done at home. (The state) government has taken the right decision,” he added.
Apart from challenges from members of the public, the Centre had also challenged the Odisha government’s decision. Additional Solicitor General Tushar Mehta said the festivals could be held – without upsetting health protocols – by limiting attendees and imposing restrictions.
However, the Supreme Court – which last year allowed the Rath Yatra (again, only in Puri) after laying down very strict rules about the number of people who could take part – was not swayed.
The Odisha government had warned the top court it would be impossible to monitor and control crowds during the Rath Yatra – to ensure the use of face masks and maintaining social distancing – across the state.
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