Prepare guidelines for permission to hold religious, social gatherings: Punjab CM

A day after 59 people died in a train accident here, Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh has directed Home Secretary NS Kalsi to prepare detailed guidelines for permission to hold religious and social congregations.

The guidelines should clearly define the rules and regulations for holding such events and gatherings in any part of the state on any occasion, as per the directives issued by the Chief Minister, read a statement.

Captain Amarinder Singh has also asked the Home Secretary to issue an immediate advisory for sale and storage of crackers for the upcoming Diwali festival, to ensure strict adherence to the safety rules and guidelines.

Taking serious note of the train tragedy, the Chief Minister made it clear that no laxity would be tolerated in these matters.

While the culpability in yesterday's tragic incident would be fixed, it was imperative to ensure that such an incident is not repeated, Captain Amarinder Singh said.