The COVID-19 situation has reduced the Independence Day celebrations to a low key affair in Meghalaya with only Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma taking the salute and unfurling the National Flag on Saturday, while other ministers and MLAs would not do so.
The chief minister will take the salute and unfurl the National Flag at Polo Grounds in Shillong.
In other district headquarters and civil sub divisions, district officials will take their part as ministers and MLAs will not take the salute on Independence Day.
East Khasi Hills Deputy Commissioner Matsiewdor War Nongbri said the number of contingents for the programme in Shillong will be restricted to around 250.
The march past will be conducted only by three contingents – CRPF, 1st MLP battalion and Meghalaya Police Radio Organisation and the brass band will be played by Home Guard personnel.
There will be thermal screening of all visitors to the ground due to the COVID situation.
“This year, in view of the pandemic, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs has issued certain guidelines, protocols and precautionary steps for celebration of Independence Day,” an official notification said.
The heritage Raj Bhavan in Shillong city, which is usually thrown open to the general public during National Days every year, will not open for the general public on August 14 and 15 due to the current COVID-19 situation.