As the nation eagerly anticipates the consecration ceremony of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya on January 22, 2024, several states in India have made announcements regarding holidays for their residents. The central government has also declared a half-day holiday for its employees nationwide, adding to the festive spirit surrounding this historic occasion.
Holiday Announcements Across States:
Full Day Holiday:
- Uttar Pradesh: Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has declared a full-day holiday in all academic institutions across the state, recognizing the significance of the consecration ceremony.
Half Day Holiday:
- Madhya Pradesh (MP), Goa, Maharashtra, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Tripura: These states have granted a full-day holiday for both educational institutions and government offices.
- Haryana, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Assam, Delhi: These states have opted for a half-day holiday, allowing residents to celebrate the Ram Mandir event while balancing essential work commitments.
Undeclared Holiday:
- Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Kerala: Despite political pressure and calls from various quarters, these states have not officially declared a public holiday. It’s noteworthy that the ruling Congress in Karnataka, amidst pressure from the BJP, has not made any announcement regarding a holiday.
The temple inauguration ceremony, scheduled a little after 12 pm on Monday, will witness the presence of diverse dignitaries, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi. From postponing exams to declaring holidays, states have taken various measures to allow residents to participate in the joyous occasion.
