NEW DELHI: The central government is giving concessions to open places of worship in places other than containment zones, after a long wait. The sanctioned concessions are being given to the shrine in accordance with the directions of the national lockdown extended till June 30. The fifth phase lockdown will start on June 1, but the concessions will start from the 8th. Meanwhile, although the central government has given permission for the sanctuary to be opened, it is uncertain whether it will be sanctioned in Kerala.
There is doubt as to whether the places of worship will continue to be closed in view of the central stance that the state governments can decide on the circumstances of the lockdown concessions. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said yesterday that the need to open places of worship will be taken up after the situation improves. The protests are strong among believers against the openness of liquor shops and their attitude towards the places of worship. Believers are wondering whether the state government will continue to do so despite the approval of the Center. Chief Minister BS Yeddyurappa has written to the Prime Minister demanding permission to open shrines, temples, and other places of worship from June 1.
