As country unlocks, how can places of worship be closed ? – SC

The Petitioner BJP’s MP Nishikant Dubey and Vaidyanath Dham temple at Deoghar in Jharkhand

New Delhi – The Supreme Court on 31^st July observed that when the entire country was unlocking, how could places of worship be kept closed, especially on important occasions. He also questioned why temples, mosques and churches shouldn’t also be opened for important occasions. The Court asked the Jharkhand Government why it is not allowing devotees on a limited basis at Baidyanath temple during the Shravani Mela.

The order of the apex court came on a plea filed by BJP MP Nishikant Dubey challenging the High Court order to organise virtual darshan at the Baidyanath temple in Deogarh. The top court directed the State Government to examine opening places of worship in areas where lockdown has been lifted or eased.

On 3rd July, the Jharkhand High Court denied permission to hold the annual Shravani Mela at the Baidyanath Temple in Deogarh, against the backdrop of the Covid-19 pandemic. The High Court had directed the Jharkhand Government to organise virtual prayers for devotees. The apex court has declined to stay the High Court verdict.

E-darshan is no darshan – Court

A bench headed by Justice Arun Mishra and comprising B.R. Gavai and Krishna Murari said: “E-darshan is no darshan ! Why not allow darshan on a limited basis, following social distancing guidelines ?”