 "New ordinance to empower Kerala with more powers to contain coronavirus")
Kerala government has decided to introduce Kerala Epidemic Diseases Ordinance 2020, giving more powers to the government to control the events organised by the public, individuals and groups, in order to contain spread of Covid-19 in the State.
Under the ordinance, the government can shut down the borders, control the public and private transport facilities, form guidelines for social restrictions and control or ban public gathering at public places or religious institutions. It can also control the working of government offices, educational institutions, private firms, factories, shops, workshops, godowns among others.
As per the ordinance, the government can also impose time restrictions on essential services. Violation of these restrictions could be punishable with two years of imprisonment or Rs 10,000 penalty or both. Police can take action against such violations directly.
"The Ordinance is to adapt strict and effective measures to contain the spread of the communicable diseases. A cabinet meeting held today have decided to recommend the Governor to issue the Ordinance," said State Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. The cabinet also decided to shut down all beverages shops and toddy shops in the State, under the lock-down.
Today nine more Covid-19 positive cases has been confirmed, including four from Dubai, one each from UK and France. With this, the total Covid-19 cases reported in the state to 118. Of the total reported cases 12 have already recovered, including six today. A total of 76,542 individuals are under observation, of which 76,010 are in home quarantine. 532 are hospitals. Today 122 people were admitted in hospitals. 118 have got virus till now 91 are NRIs, 8 are foreigners, 19 got through contact. A total of 12 have been discharged so far.
The state government has announced lockdown with the number of Covid-19 positive cases crossing 100 this week.
One subscription. Two world-class reads.
Already subscribed? Log in
Subscribe to read the full story →*Subscribe to Business Standard digital and get complimentary access to The New York Times
Smart Quarterly
₹900
3 Months
₹300/Month
SAVE 25%
Smart Essential
₹2,700
1 Year
₹225/Month
SAVE 46%
*Complimentary New York Times access for the 2nd year will be given after 12 months
Super Saver
₹3,900
2 Years
₹162/Month
Subscribe
Renews automatically, cancel anytime
Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans
Exclusive premium stories online
Over 30 premium stories daily, handpicked by our editors
Complimentary Access to The New York Times
News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic
Business Standard Epaper
Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share
Curated Newsletters
Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox
Market Analysis & Investment Insights
In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor
Archives
Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997
Ad-free Reading
Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements
Seamless Access Across All Devices
Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app
SAVE 25%