Section 144 of the CrPc has been imposed in the East District of Sikkim till April 18 amid Coronavirus outbreak fears in the state.
States like Maharashtra, Rajasthan and Odisha have imposed the law which prohibits gathering of more than five people in a public place at a time.
While Maharashtra has reported the highest number of Coronavirus cases, Rajasthan and Odisha also have COVID-19 positive cases. However, Sikkim is still safe with zero cases reported so far and the clampdown in the East District is aimed at reducing the risk of transmission of the disease.
The order will be effective in the Gangtok municipality area and also includes bazaar areas of Ranipul, Singtam, Rangpo, Pakyong, Rhenock and Rongli.
Social gatherings like marriages have been exempted from the restriction.
“The novel Coronavirus spreads to a person through contact with an infected individual, making social distancing and avoiding gathering of public essential to reduce the risk of transmission,” said DC East explaining the reason for the imposition of Section 144.
Further, any person infected or suspected to be infected with the contagious virus, refusing treatment or steps to prevent would its spread will be prosecuted.
Similarly, three other districts of Sikkim – West District, South District and North District – have issued similar prohibitory orders in the area under their jurisdiction.
