Lockdown in Assam from 6 PM of 24 March till 31 March: Himanta

March 23: In order to tackle the spread of coronavirus in the state, Assam government has declared complete LOCKDOWN in the state from 6 PM of 24 March, 2020 till 31 March, 2020. If anybody is found to disobey the order, then punitive measures will be adopted. During the lockdown all people shall have to compulsorily remain indoors during the lockdown. For the 1st breach of lockdown, there will be imprisonment for 6 months. But for breach of lockdown for the 2nd time, imprisonment of 2 months will be imposed. Section 270 of IPC would also be invoked, said the minister. Police will arrest anybody on roads after 6 PM of 24 March, baring those who are out for purchasing only groceries and medicine. This was stated by state Health Minister Himanta Biswa Sharma on Monday evening during his media briefing. Public in general will not be allowed to come out in the street, except those who are in essential services. More than 3 people will not be allowed in any temple, mosque, churches, Namghars, etc.  He said that in slightest symptom of fever, cough, throat pain, one should call 104 and inform the government. The minister said that even inside the house we should try to maintain safe distance with our parents and other family members, especially the aged.

However, essential services will remain available. Petrol pumps, pharmacies and shops selling food grains (groceries) shall remain open. Even the grocery shops and pharmacies should cut the number of their employees. All vegetable, fruits, fish, meat markets shall be compulsorily closed. Bank and treasury will also function. PHE will also function.  All doctors, nurses, paramedical staff were directed to remain in the head office. eave of all health employees including doctors in the state will stand cancelled. He said, “No casual approach will be tolerated at all. This is not the time of rejoicing. I request the people of Assam please stay indoors, please stay safe. There is no medicine of COVID-19 at this stage.”

The minister also said that many people in the state without understanding went out from the houses at 5 PM on Sunday and started to celebrate. This is indeed very unfortunate. Those who have done this is very risky. He said, “This is the time not to celebrate, but to stay indoors. Those young people who have diabetes, heart patient or has poor morbidity are vulnerable to coronavirus. The aged are of course vulnerable.” Inter-state transport will remain shut during the period.

All vehicles, private and public, except those marked as engaged in essential services will not ply on the roads in the states. Media has a huge role to play. said the minister. Media should try to show everyday that fake news should be believed from social media until and unless the source is authentic. He said, “Sending right information to the people is very essential at this juncture. So media should play a constructive role.”

Those who require gas cylinder shall have to manage it before 6 PM of 24 March. After that gas agencies will also be shut down.

More details to follow….