The Cabinet in a meeting on 27th April 2021 in Kohima has decided to impose new consolidated guidelines enforcing stricter rules to be followed from 30th April to 14th May 2021. This was stated in a press briefing by Government Spokesperson and Advisor IT&C, Mmhonlumo Kikon held at the Chief Secretary’s Conference Hall, Kohima.
He stated that the decision was taken due to the rise in COVID-19 cases in the state. The Government will issue fresh guidelines on 29th April 2021 which will come into effect from 30th April 2021, he further informed.
The spokesperson also stated that all educational institutions, cinema halls, swimming pools, gymnasium, entertainment parks, auditorium, assembly halls, sports complex and stadium and similar places, public places in the state like park, museums, libraries, re-creation centers, etc in the State will be prohibited. Various restrictions on public gatherings will also be put in place he added. Guidelines on entry and exit points and routes on inter-state borders, movement of persons and vehicles in the State, shops, markets and other activities, office, protection of vulnerable persons will also be issued.
The Advisor also informed that essential services will be allowed in containment zones with proper SoPs in place. The District Task Force headed by the respective Deputy Commissioners shall strictly enforce the new guideline measures. He also stated that the any person violating the guidelines will be penalized as per the provision of Section 51 to 60 of the Disaster Management act 2005, besides legal action under Sec 188 of the IPC and other legal provisions as applicable.
Mmhonlumo stated that the State is prepared to face the second wave and challenges. He, however stated that the Government alone cannot fight the pandemic unless the citizens cooperate. He requested all to wear mask at all times, wash their hands at all possible time and to maintain social distancing. The Advisor also informed that the Cabinet decided to impose a fine of Rs 200/- to all persons not wearing mask. This will be enforced by the DTF, he added.
(Akummeren, IA)
