SC limits Rath Yatra only to Puri amid fears of Covid 3rd wave

The Supreme Court on Tuesday said that this year the Rath Yatra could only be held at Odisha's Puri Jagannath Temple and not at other places in the state. The decision comes amid concerns that mass gatherings could spark a third wave of Covid infections.

The top court was hearing a batch of petitions challenging the Odisha government's decision to cancel the Rath Yatra except for the Puri Jagannath Temple edition. The state said it would be impossible to control crowds and ensure Covid-appropriate behaviour at multiple locations.

The central government had also wanted Rath Yatras to be held at places in the state. Additional Solicitor General Tushar Mehta said this could be done without upsetting health protocols.

However, the apex court bench dismissed all the petitions with the Chief Justice saying the government has taken the right decision.