Gauhati High Court orders punishment to those violating COVID-19 protocol

The Gauhati High Court has ordered punishment for those violating COVID-19 protocol like not wearing mask. One Tanmay Jyoti Mahanta in an Public Interest Litigation (PIL) argued that the State machineries have miserably failed in implementing mandatory use of proper face masks by people of the State who move out of their houses. The people do not maintain proper social distancing in public or work places, the petitioner stated in the PIL.  

“We are pained in recording which is a common knowledge that the people of the State in market places and otherwise can be commonly seen without wearing any mask or wearing masks below nose level which would result in spread of COVID-19. We further find that people get together in groups in market places and in work environment without caring for their own health or the health of the others. Surely, no resident/citizen has the right to put his own life in jeopardy or put the life of the others at risk. For the said purpose, various legislations have been made and in exercise of power various orders have been issued. The orders, however, apparently are being flouted because the punitive action provided thereunder is not being taken against the violators of the Government orders and notifications,” the court observed.

Also Read: Wearing of mask not compulsory while driving or cyclinghttps://www.insidene.com/wearing-of-mask-not-compulsory-while-driving-or-cycling/

The Court directed the concerned District Heads of Police, Deputy Superintendents of Police and Officers-in-Charge of the Police Stations to be proactive on the streets and check whether the directions issued vide order dated 08.05.2020 (supra) and this Court are complied with or not. In case the directions are violated, fine be imposed as provided in order dated 08.05.2020.            

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