Odisha On COVID-19 Alert: Keonjhar Clamps Section 144, Warns Of Action For Violations

Keonjhar: After Ganjam and Jajpur, the Keonjhar district administration has decided to impose prohibitory orders under Section 144 of CrPC in view of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.

In a notification, Keonjhar Collector Ashish Thakare said that the prohibitory orders have been clamped for immediate prevention and to safeguard the life of general public in the district.

“No gathering of more than five persons will be allowed in this district in any public or private places except those inside house or house premises and weekly market,” he said.

There will be restrictions on social and ritual functions, opera show/marriage barat and political rally/gathering for agitation.

No Kalyan Mandaps will be permitted to hold any functions where public gathering possibilities, the notification said.

“All hotels or dharmasala where people reside on regular basis coming from outside should keep all precautionary measures of COVID 2019 like hand sanitizer and isolation room during this period. Anybody with signs and symptoms like cough, fever or difficulty in breathing should call district helpline No. 06766-255437 and Toll free No. 1077,” it added.

Leaflets or any other awareness materials regarding coronavirus can be distributed only with prior approval of District Magistrate.

The SPs, Sub-Divisional Magistrates, Executive Magistrates and IICs of police stations have been directed to keep watch on gathering of individuals in their respective areas and to check such area on regular basis. Any violation should be immediately brought to the notice of the undersigned and suitable action be taken, it further said.

“On violation of the prohibitory order, complain will be lodged against the concerned under Section 188 of IPC. All the persons should cooperate in abiding by the restrain order,” the notification said.

It also warned against spread of any rumour or misinformation on any media causing panic

This order will remain in force till March 31.