India Reopens Public Places Even As Coronavirus Cases Rise

Indians can now dine out, shop in malls and pray at religious sites for the first time in nearly 2 1/2 months. But masks or face coverings are mandatory and visitors will be thermally screened at entrances.
The easing of restrictions — the most significant since India went under lockdown in March — comes as the country records its biggest spike so far in new coronavirus cases in a single day. India counted 9,983 new infections Monday, with its overall tally crossing 250,000. The death toll stands at 7,200.
Over the weekend, India surpassed Spain in the number of infections and became the fifth-worst affected country in the world.
Guided by little boxes painted on floors to maintain social distancing, worshippers offered prayers at mosques, temples and other religious sites across India. But the faithful are not allowed to touch any idols or holy books. Sprinkling of sacred water, a common practice in many religions including Hinduism and Christianity, is also banned. People going to mosques have to bring their own prayer mats.