Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (KR)

Udupi, Apr 7: Udupi district administration called a peace meeting with all religious leaders of Udupi ahead of festivals to come on Tuesday, April 7, at the police superintendent's office. The meeting was attended by various community leaders.

Addressing the gathering G Jagadeesha, deputy commissioner of Udupi stated that as section 144 is imposed due to the coronavirus, the administration will not allow any gathering or celebration of festivals. In this week, festivals such as Good Friday and Shab-E-Barat are to take place.

However, as already the lockdown is in place, any such gathering in the name of the celebration of the above festivals is prohibited.

As soon as the lockdown was imposed, different communities cooperated with the district administration. They abstained themselves from conducting Puja, Mass or Namaz. Hoping the same will continue until the lockdown ends on April 14, said the DC.

Several religious leaders in the state have urged people to celebrate the above festivals in the safety of their homes. The DC has extended a similar request to the people in the district as well. Amid the 21-day lockdown, only emergency services like medical requirements and grocery essentials are allowed free movement but under a limited time.

"No objections in celebrating these festivals at home with social distance. If anyone violates the government orders then we will and we have to take strict action against the violators," the DC said.

One of the community representatives at the meeting asked regarding the blame game taking place against a particular community because of the recent Tablighi event.

Responding to the statement, the DC reiterated CM Yediyurappa's warning against those who are spewing hate in society. The DC assured that measures will be taken to tackle such behaviour and complaints.

Representing the diocese of Udupi, Fr George D'Souza said, "We have received clear instructions from the Bishop on the first day itself and we all are committed to follow the instructions."

Another leader from Kundapur said, "We have seen a message going viral in the social media which asks people to not purchase any products from retailers of our community. These statements disrupt the peace in the society and the administration must look into it."

Responding to this, the SP of Udupi said, "We have a cybercrime department and during this period whoever is involved in such acts will be penalised as per the law."

During the peace meet, SP Vishnuvarndhana, ASP Kumarchandra, DSP Jai Shankar and other religious leaders were present. ASP Kumar Chandra welcomed and thanked representatives present for the meeting.