A man has been arrested on charges of posting fake news on social media on coronavirus in Rayagada, police said on Saturday.
The man was identified as Satyanarayan Samal (32).
"The accused had posted on Facebook that a person infected with coronavirus was admitted to a district hospital which turned out to be fake," police said.
The accused has been booked under Sections 153A, 504, 507 and 505 (1) (b).
The Odisha government has declared COVID-19 a 'disaster' under the provisions of the Disaster Management Act, 2005, to adequately empower public officials to combat the spread of coronavirus.
Earlier, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik announced that all non-essential official gatherings such as seminars, workshops, and conferences have been cancelled.
Social gatherings and assemblies like religious functions, marriage receptions and parties will be regulated by local authorities. cinemas, swimming pools and gyms will remain closed till March 31 in the state.
Disclaimer: No Business Standard Journalist was involved in creation of this content
You’ve reached your limit of {{free_limit}} free articles this month.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
Already subscribed? Log in
Subscribe to read the full story →
Smart Quarterly
₹900
3 Months
₹300/Month
Smart Essential
₹2,700
1 Year
₹225/Month
Super Saver
₹3,900
2 Years
₹162/Month
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