Rourkela: An all-important peace committee meeting was held Saturday at the SP office in Rourkela. Ram Navami, which is going to be celebrated April 17, is one of the most important events in the religious calendar of the Steel City.
This year 15 akhadas or arenas are to participate in the processions that start at different parts of the city. A few of the processions pass through some of the most sensitive parts of the city. However, so far there has not been any instance of community tension here.
The peace committee meeting lasted more than two hours. After listening to all sides, the administration has allowed five hours for the processions. “The akhada processions will be allowed for five hours, that is, from 2pm to 7pm. And I request all of you to adhere to the time limit, else this will create problems for all,” said SP Brajesh Kumar Rai.
Besides, there will be no display of weapons during the processions. The processions will not stop in between and will continue to move from Madhusudan Chowk till Bhatti Road.
ADM Rourkela and returning officer Ashutosh Kulkarni, who was also present in the meeting, explained about the Model Code of Conduct. “Please maintain the Model Code of Conduct because everything is being watched by the Election Commission of India,” said the ADM.
He further added, “The events should not have any political overtone. If you are inviting politicians, then don’t allow any political speeches. Stick strictly to the MCC in order to avoid any unpleasant situation.”
The administration is in discussion with the Rourkela Municipal Corporation (RMC) for the immersion ceremony, which will take place at the Balughat. Special ponds will be created where the idols will be immersed.
Each akhada will have more than 500 volunteers. The processions, which will start from Bisra Chowk, will pass through the Main Road, in old Rourkela area, the main business district of the city and will culminate near Udit Nagar.
PNN