GUWAHATI: Keeping in view the fresh surge in the number of COVID-19 positive cases globally and the emergence of a new variant of the virus in the UK, the central ministry of home affairs has issued an order on 28th December, extending the implementation of the earlier COVID-19 guidelines till 31st January.
Stating that strict vigil needs to be maintained to prevent any surge of cases in the wake of the New Year celebrations and the winter season which are favourable for the spread of the virus, the government asked all states and union territories to abide by the direction issued by the Supreme Court of India in a suo moto Writ Petition, WP (C) No. 7 of 2020.
The SC has directed that all states and UTs are to take strict and stern action against those violating guidelines, "whoever he may be and whatever position the violator is occupying."
More and more police personnel are to be deployed at places where there is likelihood of gatherings like food courts, eateries, markets, mandis, bus and railway stations, street vendors, etc.
As far as possible no permission for any celebrations (even during the daytime) are to be permitted by the local administration.
Curfew on weekends and nights should be considered by the states.
However, any decision to impose curfew and or lockdown is to be announced long in advance so that people may make provisions.