Nightclubs shut, 50-plus gatherings banned in Delhi over coronavirus | Latest News India - Hindustan Times
close_game
close_game

Nightclubs shut, 50-plus gatherings banned in Delhi over coronavirus

Hindustan Times, New Delhi | ByHT Correspondent
Mar 16, 2020 03:23 PM IST

The ban, imposed by Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, is effective immediately. It will cover protests including the one against the amended citizenship law that has continued for more than two months at Shaheen Bagh.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday invoked the Epidemic Diseases Act of 1897 to impose a complete ban on social, religious and political gatherings of more than 50 people in the national capital. Weddings are permitted, for now, said Kejriwal. But he appealed to people to put off the weddings also if they can.

Delhi CM Kejriwal said the administration was prepared for an eventuality where a larger number of people may be infected as a precautionary measure.(Photo: ANI)
Delhi CM Kejriwal said the administration was prepared for an eventuality where a larger number of people may be infected as a precautionary measure.(Photo: ANI)

The ban, effective immediately, will also cover protests including the one against the amended citizenship law that has continued for more than two months at Shaheen Bagh. The rule will apply for all gatherings of 50 or more.

Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now.

Also read: With 25 cases, India records biggest single day increase in Covid-19 cases

“If still protestors or other groups continue to gather in large numbers, then appropriate actions under the Epidemic Disease Act will be taken by the area District Magistrates (Deputy Commissioners), SDMs,” he said.

“We have already shut schools, colleges, swimming pools so far. Today, it has been decided to order gyms, night clubs and spas also to close as a precautionary measure,” Kejriwal told a news conference after a review of the steps taken by the city government to prevent community transmission of the infection.

Watch l Coronavirus: Gathering of over 50 banned; gyms, nightclubs closed till March 31 

The national capital has only reported seven confirmed coronavirus cases so far including two patients who have recovered and have been discharged. One person, a 68-year-old woman, died last week.

Kejriwal said the administration was prepared for an eventuality where a larger number of people may be infected as a precautionary measure.

“Five hundred beds that have been kept aside in case there is a need for hospitalisation at a large scale,” Kejriwal said, adding that quarantine facilities have been arranged at three Delhi hotels - Lemon Tree, Red Fox and IBIS.

Also read: The threat of community transmission of coronavirus looms large

He also appealed to people who had come in contact with coronavirus patients and advised home quarantine to follow the advice of medical personnel. This, he said, was important for the safety of their family and society at large.

Apart from imposing a fresh set of restrictions, Kejriwal said it had also been decided to order municipal commissioners and district officers to install mobile washbasins in public places so that people can keep their hands clean. Security guards at buildings would also be given hand sanitisers for people to use when they enter and exit the complex.

Asked if thermal screening would be started for Delhi Metro passengers, Kejriwal said this point will be examined.

Unveiling Elections 2024: The Big Picture', a fresh segment in HT's talk show 'The Interview with Kumkum Chadha', where leaders across the political spectrum discuss the upcoming general elections. Watch now!

Get Current Updates on India News, Election 2024, Arvind Kejriwal News Live, Bihar Board 10th Result 2024 Live along with Latest News and Top Headlines from India and around the world.
SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Share this article
SHARE
Story Saved
Live Score
OPEN APP
Saved Articles
Following
My Reads
Sign out
New Delhi 0C
Thursday, March 28, 2024
Start 14 Days Free Trial Subscribe Now
Follow Us On