As precautionary measures amidst Coronavirus outbreak, the Mumbai Police has issued Section 144 in Mumbai. Since the WHO declared the virus as a pandemic, it is extremely important that we ourselves take the required measures to keep ourselves isolated. This imposition will prohibit any tour involving a group of people travelling together to a foreign/domestic destination organised by private tour operators or otherwise using powers under section 144 CrPc. The order will remain in force till the end of this month, i.e. 31st March 2020.
The Police Order said,
With a view to prevent danger to human life, health or safety, we hereby promulgate an order under Section 144 of the CrPC in the areas under the control of Commissioner of Police, prohibiting the conduct of any business, holiday or other types of tours involving groups of people travelling together to a foreign or domestic destination organised by private tour operators.
This means that you can still go out with your friends and family like always, but not the tour groups. Although we’d suggest going out for anyone to be a cautious and careful decision. And if any tour operator is found guilty of not following the order, the Mumbai Police has warned that action will be taken against them. This action will come under IPC 188 (disobedience to order duly promulgated by a public servant.
Talking about the imposition, Pranay Ashok, Deputy Commissioner of Police said,
We have issued this order to prevent the spread of COVID-19. This will prohibit the tour operators from conducting any kind of tour involving a group of people. This is a very specific order aimed at preventing danger to human life and safety. It will be in force till March 31. It should not be confused with the regular order issued under section 144 CrPC. If any operator has to take a group of people on a tour, then he may do so after seeking permission from the office of the Commissioner of Police. Anybody found flouting this order shall be punished under IPC section 188.
We have distributed masks as well as sanitisers to the police stations for use. We advise people to avoid public gathering, assembling and roaming outside. In case people don’t feel well, they should approach nearby government hospitals. People should not believe in fake news.
Stay safe, wash your hands, and don’t touch your face folks!
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