The East Singhbhum district administration has decided to allow only 200 guests at wedding receptions, the cap imposed after blatant violation of Covid safety norms at recent gatherings.

"Such a decision has been taken to prevent the spread of Covid-19. The host should also ensure that those attending the parties follow social distancing and other Covid norms or else necessary action would be taken as per provisions of the Disaster Management Act," said a district administrative official.

East Singhbhum deputy commissioner Suraj Kumar has passed on the instructions to all hotels, banquet and community halls, especially those that are taken on rent for hosting wedding receptions.

Kumar said the administration was forced to impose curbs after it was observed that those who were attending weddings were ignoring safety protocols, thereby risking the spread of the virus.

The deputy commissioner has also issued instructions to all officials to keep a watch on wedding ceremonies so that the guidelines are not violated.

This is peak wedding season, expected to continue till mid-December.

As per the directives issued by the office of deputy commissioner, party hosts would have to keep chairs 6 feet apart or to arrange them in circles at a distance of 6 feet from each.

Also, thermal scanners, hand wash facilities and sanitizers would have to be arranged for use at the entrance and exit of venues.