Wear mask or go to jail: Telangana govt | Economic Times

In view of the surge in Covid-19 cases, the Telangana government on Saturday made it mandatory for people across the state to wear masks while stepping out into public places. Those violating the diktat, the order stated, will be subjected to strict punishment - even imprisonment.“Wearing masks is one of the most important interventions to prevent Covid-19 infection. It is mandatory to wear masks in all public places, workspaces and public means of transport across the state,” the order, issued by Telangana chief secretary Somesh Kumar read. It added: “Any deviation in this regard shall attract prosecution under Section 51 and 60 of Disaster Management Act 2005 and Section 188 of the Indian Penal Code (Disobedience to order duly promulgated by public servant)”. 81732526According to Sections 51 to 60 of the Disaster Management Act, anybody found obstructing an officer or employee from performing duty will be imprisoned for a term, which may extend to one year or fined, or both. To ensure strict implementation of the mask rule, the government issued directions to all collectors, district magistrates, commissioners and superintendents of police in the state to keep watch, while also imposing restrictions on public gatherings, congregations, rallies and processions during the upcoming religious events.“Congregations pose considerable threat of rapid transmission of Covid-19. Therefore, it is decided that public celebrations/observances should not be allowed in the state during religious events such as Shab-e-Barat, Holi, Ugadi, Rama Navami, Mahavir Jayanthi, Good Friday and Ramzan, till April 30,” a second order by the chief secretary read. Violations to these directives too will lead to punishment under Sections 51 and 60 of Disaster Management Act 2005 Section 188 of the IPC and other applicable laws, it added.