Tamil Nadu Government has informed Madras High Court that restrictions for Vinayagar Chathurthi celebration have been imposed based on the instructions of the Union Government in view of COVID-19 spread.<br />''<br />''The Advocate General R. Shanmugasundaram said that the Union Home Ministry in a communication dated August 28, had advised Chief Secretaries of all states to take suitable measures to avoid large gatherings during the coming festive season and if required impose local restrictions. Small temples will be kept open and worshipped idols will be collected by staff of the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department and will be immersed in a water body in a regulated manner.<br />''<br />''<span style="color: #000000;">The State Government has also banned public gatherings at Besant Nagar Holy Shrine for St. Mary's Festival to be held tomorrow.<br />''<br />'' Already, worship places of all sorts are banned for the public on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays due to COVID-19 pandemic.</span><br />