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The long-anticipated Ram Mandir consecration date is finally close. In order to observe the ‘Pran Pratishtha’ ceremony at the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya tomorrow, 22 January, Delhi government-run schools will remain closed. However, evening schools will operate starting at 2:30 pm on the same day.
Education department issues a notification
In a notification issued on Sunday, the education department of the national capital stated, “All government and government-aided schools of Delhi running in general and morning shifts are ordered to remain closed on January 22.” The decision aligns with the earlier notification declaring a half-day closure for all Delhi government establishments and offices to allow employees to participate in the rituals of ‘Pran Pratishtha’ for Ram Lalla.
Lieutenant Governor of Delhi VK Saxena approved the half-day closure of government offices, Urban Local Bodies (ULBs), autonomous bodies, undertakings, and boards on Saturday to mark the opening of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya.
Other states that followed suit
Several states, including Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Goa, have followed suit in declaring public holidays or half-days for the ‘Pran Pratishtha’ ceremony. Goa, for instance, has declared January 22 a public holiday, closing government offices and schools. Tripura has also announced the closure of all offices and educational institutions until 2:30 pm for the Ram Mandir celebrations.
Ban on sale of liquor and non-veg food
Some states have imposed additional restrictions, such as bans on the sale of liquor or meat and fish during the mega event in Ayodhya. The Centre has proclaimed a half-day for its offices and PSU banks, with a notification from the Finance Ministry stating that central government offices, institutions, and industrial establishments will remain closed until 2:30 pm on January 22. However, private sector banks will remain open according to the Reserve Bank of India’s holiday list, treating it as a regular working day.
Also Read: Karnataka CM Declares NO HOLIDAY on Consecration Day; Private Schools To Live-stream The Event
