Covid shadow on R-Day celebrations in Chandigarh

Dushyant Singh Pundir

Chandigarh, January 15

In the wake of a surge in the Covid-19 cases, the Republic Day celebrations will again be a low-key affair in the city this year. UT Adviser Dharam Pal said in view the rise in the coronavirus cases, the function would be scaled down this year.

As a preventive measure, there would be no large gatherings during the Republic Day function.

Schoolchildren would not be called to participate in various events during the celebrations, he said, adding that no “At Home” function would be held at the Punjab Raj Bhawan. During normal days, the “At Home” witnesses the presence of bigwigs from the UT.

Unlike last year, he, however, said the award-distribution function would be held as usual. Last year, fewer people were honoured at the Parade Ground and the department heads were entrusted with the task of the distribution of awards and honours to the recipients of their respective department.

Thousands of people attend the Republic Day celebrations every year at the Parade Ground in Sector 17, but this time, the list would be pruned. However, the march past will be presented by the police. It would be mandatory for everyone to wear masks.

Meanwhile, the Central Government has rejected the themes submitted by the UT Administration for its tableau for the Republic Day Parade for the sixth year in a row. The Administration had submitted different themes for the tableau to the Central Government, but all were rejected, said an official.