COVID-19: Dr Harsh Vardhan warns legal action against violators of lockdown in India

Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare Dr Harsh Vardhan on Wednesday said that in wake of Coronavirus outbreak, it is important to follow all protocols issued by Centre and violating m might result in legal action under Section 188 of Indian Penal Code (IPC). This comes after PM Modi on Tuesday, anunced a 21-day lockdown throughout India starting at midnight on Tuesday. 

Speaking to ANI, Dr Harsh Vardhan asserted importance of following protocol, ding that violators will face legal action under section 188 of IPC. 

"In order to protect ourselves and ors, it is highly important that we follow all protocols, guidelines and directions issued by government, failing which may le to legal actions under Section 188 of IPC," said Dr Harsh Vardhan.

Earlier today, a high-level meeting of Group of Ministers (GoM) on COVID-19 was held at Nirman Bhawan under chairpersonship of Health Minister Dr Vardhan. GoM h a detailed deliberation on prevention and manment of COVID-19 in meeting.

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Guidelines for lockdown

On Tuesday, MHA issued an order detailing guidelines for nationwide lockdown. As per order, all offices of government barring for those providing essential services will remain shut. y will function with minimum number of employees. Hospitals and all medical establishments will be open and transport of people working in this field will be permitted. All commercial establishments and private organizations will be closed. exemptions include print and electronic media, shops selling essential items, e-delivery of food, medical equipment, banks, petrol pumps etc. suspension of transport and hospitality services shall continue. 

Moreover, legal action can be taken against a person who does t follow quarantine period prescribed by local health authorities. Incident Commanders appointed by District Magistrates will be responsible for overall implementation of se measures in ir jurisdictions. An individual violating containment measures can be proceeded against under Section 51 to 60 of Disaster Manment Act and Section 188 of Indian Penal Code.

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Coronavirus crisis in India

As of date, over 520 active cases have been reported of pandemic Coronavirus (COVID-19) with Maharashtra reporting highest at 112. Ten deaths have been reported till date. India has suspended all visas and barred travel from Afghanistan, Philippines, EU, UK, China, Malaysia and mandatory 14-day quarantine from several or countries and Prime Minister has issued a 21-day countrywide lockdown starting from 25 March to April 15, while anuncing a Rs 15,000 crore relief pack.

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(with inputs from ANI)