With people not following the lockdown orders in Punjab ‘properly’, the state government has imposed a curfew till March 31.
A Punjab government spokesperson said, “After reviewing the situation with the Chief Secretary and DGP, the CM has announced full curfew with no relaxations. The DCs have been asked to issue orders accordingly. Any person required to be given relaxation will be so allowed specifically for a given period and purpose.”
Punjab is the first state to pass such orders. The stringent orders were necessitated with fears that the virus may infect many people after reports said some persons contracted the infection at Hola Mohalla celebrations in Anandpur Sahib earlier this month, despite directions against holding such gatherings.
A top government functionary said curfew was the only means to keep people indoors.
Senior officials in the government said there was a complete ban on movement, which came into effect immediately. Deputy commissioners in each district had been authorised to issue passes, which would be time specific and destination specific. Only those with the passes would be allowed to move around.
Even for essential services, including doctors, chemists, and daily goods shops, it was mandatory to apply for permission, and only thereafter could they run their operations.
Source: Link
