The state government provided relaxation in places of worship, as well as political, sporting and entertainment gatherings.
The Tamil Nadu government has extended the restrictions across the state due to the coronavirus pandemic until January 31. According to the latest guidelines, the state government has banned the congregation of the public on the beaches of Tamil Nadu on January 16 for the Kaanum Pongal festival.
According to a press release issued on Thursday, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami announced that the lockdown is being extended across the state with relaxations except in infection containment zones. Under the latest regulations, places of worship will now operate on relaxed hours following standard operating procedures already provided to religious institutions. The state has also increased the upper visitor limit to 200 people or 50% of the capacity of the covered arenas where religious, social, political, sports, entertainment and cultural gatherings are held.
The Tamil Nadu government also allowed indoor and outdoor film and series shootings to take place with no limit on the number of participants. However, the state government has yet to provide information or update regarding a possible change in occupancy limits at movie theaters. Actor Vijay had recently met with the Chief Minister and one of the topics discussed at the meeting was reportedly the occupation of the theater since his film. Teacher is scheduled for release on January 13, in time for Pongal 2021.
In relation to the existing restrictions, the electronic registration method that is in place for those entering Tamil Nadu from states other than Puducherry, Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka will continue to exist as is. Similarly, the ban on international flights will remain in force according to the announcement of the Union government.
Although colleges across the state have reopened for seniors, the state has yet to announce the way forward for other college and school students. The Tamil Nadu government has also announced strict restrictions in Chennai and across the state on Thursday and Friday under the guise of New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Eve celebrations.
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