Port Blair, Apr 2: The Home Ministry has asked all States and Union Territories to strictly implement lockdown measures. In a letter written by the Union Home Secretary, Shri Ajay Bhalla to the Chief Secretaries of the States/UTs, administrations have been requested to strictly implement lockdown measures without allowing any exception.
The National Disaster Management Authority has also issued directions to all states/UTs to take effective measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Guidelines have also been issued for these 21 days with directions for their strict implementation.
In this connection, the Disaster Management Department, A&N Administration has asked the general public to maintain the lockdown and not leave houses until absolutely necessary. Any person violating the containment measures will be liable to be proceeded against as per the provisions of Section 51-60 of the Disaster Management Act apart from legal action under Section 188 of the IPC. Any irresponsible behavior poses a grave danger to community at large. As per the provisions under section 51 b of the Disaster Management Act, refusal to comply with any direction given by the authorities, resulting in loss of lives or imminent danger will attract punishment to the extent of imprisonment up to 2 years.
Similarly, as per Section 52 of the Act, a person knowingly making a false claim for obtaining any relief, assistance, repair, reconstruction or other benefits consequent to disaster shall, on conviction be punishable with imprisonment for a term which may extend to two years, and also with fine.
The Section 54 of the Act ensures punishment for false warning. Whoever makes or circulates a false alarm or warning as to disaster or its severity or magnitude, leading to panic, shall on conviction, be punishable with imprisonment which may extend to one year or with fine.
