The State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) confirmed that Karnataka is facing the threat of a second wave of coronavirus and therefore is undertaking necessary measures to contain the spread of the infection in the state. From time to time, the SDMA issued various orders/instructions to concerned authorities so that they are equipped to deal with the threat appropriately.
Although Covid-19 has been under constant review in Karnataka, a persistent rise in the cases has been observed in the last fortnight. SDMA has anticipated that upcoming festivals like Ugadi, Holi, Shab-e-Barat, Good Friday etc are likely to pose a considerable threat to the spread of the virus and cause a setback in the suppression of the chain of transmission of Covid-19 cases in Karnataka. Following this, an official government order announced that public celebrations and all gatherings/congregations during upcoming festivals will not be allowed in public places.
“In exercise of powers conferred under Section 22 of the Disaster Management Act, 2005, SDMA, directs BBMP commissioner, deputy commissioners and all authorities concerned to ensure that public gatherings and congregations during the upcoming religious festivals like Ugadi, Holi, Shab-e-Barat, Good Friday etc. shall not be allowed in public places/public grounds/public parks/markets/religious places etc. in the state of Karnataka,” the order stated.
The official release further stated that concerned authorities such as BBMP commissioner, deputy commissioners and other authorities are required to ensure strict compliance with the order and adequately inform and sensitize the field functionaries about these instructions for strict compliance.
In case any person is found violating the order, they will be booked as per the provisions of Section 51 to 60 of Disaster Management Act,2005, Section 188 of IPC and Section 4,5, and 10 of the Karnataka Epidemic Diseases Act 2020, the order stated.