THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The government has issued a new order clarifying the decision of the district collector to remove the precondition of prior permission for construction and renovation of places of worship in the state. Two weeks ago, the Cabinet decided to waive the requirement for collectors' orders to build places of worship. Instead, the provision was made that the local bodies could decide on the matter.

Various religious organizations and institutions welcomed the government's decision. The new order was issued by the Additional Chief Secretary of the Home Ministry yesterday, further clarifying the government's decision amid concerns that the new provision would lead to unlawful construction of shrines by influencing local bodies.

The new order imposes strict conditions on the construction and renovation of places of worship in the state. If a place of worship could disrupt the religious harmony and law and order there, and the local authorities should stop the construction. It should be suggested to shift the place of worship to some other place instead.

Local bodies should not be allowed to set up and renovate places of worship without prior permission. Failure to do so will result in disciplinary action against the officials. The renovation work of the places of worship should not turn out to be difficult for the public. The new order also says that construction and renovation can be done only after the land required for widening the road has been set aside.