The state government of Maharashtra permitted the religious shrines across the state to reopen from Monday, November 16, 2020. Following the announcement, officials from the government released a list of guidelines and told the temple authorities to follow the same strictly, thereby ensure safety at all times. Mumbai's Siddhivinayak Mandir also informed the devotees about the same and has allowed only 1,000 people per day for the darshan.
Following this announcement, officials from Shirdi Sai Baba temple also opened the temple doors for devotees, and have informed them about the rules they'll have to follow while visiting. The temple has opened after a seven-month break whereby it was closed due to the Coronavirus outbreak.
Sharing the information with ANI, the authorities stated that the devotees will have to book a slot online before visiting, and will be permitted only in the allotted time chosen by them. Adding more, they expressed their happiness with the government's decision and stated that all the devotees will be only allowed after they have presented their RT-PCR test results at the gate. Moreover, kids between the age of 8-10 shall not be allowed at the temple.
Several activities across the state have resumed under the 'Mission Begin Again' initiative, however, the government was sceptical about opening temples and religious places, as they are usually crowded during the festivals and are also visited by senior citizens. Leaders from the opposition, traders and the general public from various sectors protested regarding the same and asking the government to allow them to seek blessings in these tough times. Hence, after thorough consultation and discussion, these shrines were opened for all. The religions and authorities from the respective shrines have been given the responsibility to keep a thorough check and make sure that protocols are being adhered.
Data released by the State Health Department reveals that Maharashtra currently has a total of 86,470 active cases and till date over 16.1 lakh patients have recovered from the viral infection, however, over 45,000 have died due to COVID-19.
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