Calcutta High Court on Kali Puja: “No Entry” for pandals, firecrackers banned in festivals ahead

The Calcutta High Court on Thursday said that pandals for Kali Puja will remain “No Entry” zones, the way entry was banned for people during the Durga Puja. The court also banned the use and sale of firecrackers in the coming festivals due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The order was given following public interest litigations (PILs) filed with the court. Kali Puja is on November 15. The same ban on firecrackers will be in force for Jagaddhatri Puja, Kartik Puja and Chhat Puja.

For the entry into pandals, 15 persons – other than the dhakis – will be allowed where these are 300 sq.metres, and 45 persons will be allowed for bigger pandals. Police authorities have been asked to implement the orders strictly. Processions too have been banned.