Allow reopening of religious places from June 1: Yediyurappa writes to PM

Temples, mosques, and other religious places may reopen in Karnataka from June 1, said Karnataka Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa on Wednesday (May 27), provided he gets the Centre’s green signal for the same.

“We have to get a lot of permissions before opening up, so let’s wait and see. If we get permission, places of worship can open by June 1,” he said.

The chief minister has also written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi in this connection, further requesting him to allow reopening of hotels.

Speaking to reporters in Bengaluru, Yediyurappa said, “Once we say temples can open, churches and mosques should also open, there will be no restrictions on them. In our country law is same for every one…. but for all this central governments permission is required, we are waiting for it, our efforts are on in this direction. We have to start living with COVID-19 and steps need to be taken towards it.”

Yediyurappa’s statement was in response to questions raised by some sections about opening temples and no mention about mosques and churches.

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Hindu religious institutions and charitable endowments (Muzrai) Minister Kota Srinivas Poojary on Tuesday a after meeting with the CM and senior officials had said, temples in
the state that were closed for devotees for over two months due to COVID-19 induced lockdown will be opened from June 1.

The standard operating procedure (SOP) is likely to be put in place, that needs to be followed at temples once opened for public.

However, official sources had said, the decision of opening temples will be subject to Centre’s guidelines on the next course of lockdown.

The national lockdown enforced by the Centre to stem the spread of coronavirus since March 25, and in its fourth leg now, is slated till May 31.

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On the lack of food and accommodation facilities for people coming from out side and distant places, without hotels, Yediyurappa said, he has written a letter to the Prime Minister, once permission is received, they will be allowed to open.

Responding to a question regarding opening of malls and cinemas, he said, “all those will depend on centre’s permission, I cannot take decision.”

“We have done what need to for all sections beyond our limits. Our work will please even the gods,” the chief minister said while merely ignoring a question about  financial package announced by his government not reaching those in distress yet.

A cabinet meet is expected on Thursday where the opening of religious places, including temples, mosques and churches is likely to be discussed.

(With inputs from agencies)