New ordinance to empower Kerala with more powers to contain coronavirus

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 gatherings

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