LI NETWORK
Karnataka High Court Division Bench of Chief Justice Abhay Shreeniwas Oka and Justice Ashok S Kinagi said the state government was not taking prompt action against coronavirur norms and rules violations like not wearing masks and maintaining social distance, especially in public places.
BBMP informed the Court that appropriate action had been taken against 19,500 persons for not wearing masks, and against a few others for spitting in public places.
Karnataka High Court made statement while hearing a plea alleging that the National Directives for COVID-19 Management, part of the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) guidelines, were not being followed in the state.
High Court- “It has almost been six months that the pademic of COVID-19 has come to stay. Judicial notice will have to be taken of the fact that rules relating to compulsory use of masks are being followed in breach.”
Karnataka High Court Bench passed the following directions-
State government will have to issue directions to all the authorities concerned to ensure that those who violate rules regarding masks and social distancing are proceeded against in the most effective manner. This is in view of the fact that everyday, more than 9,000 COVID-19 positive cases are being reported in the State.
State needs to taken special measures to ensure that the rules regarding masks and social distancing are strictly followed in the places of religion or in places where there is large congregation.
State government shall consider issuing directions to various authorized officers to make frequent visits to popular places of religion to ascertain whether the said rules are being complied with.
Everyone will have to bear in mind that breach of rules relating to wearing of masks may lead to spread of COVID-19.
As regards the use of swimming pools, it not clarified whether the embargo imposed by the Government of India is in relation to all swimming pools or whether it is confined only to public swimming pools. State must clarify this aspect.
State government, its agencies/instrumentalities and local bodies must take instances of violation of social distancing and wearing masks seriously, irrespective of the status of the persons involved.
The High Court noted instances of violation of social distancing norms in the state based on the affidavits filed by the petitioners. On the point of a visit of an MP and an actor to the Chamundeswari Temple, the grievance was that the persons who accompanied them were not wearing masks or following social distancing.
High Court Shown concern and said-“What is more of importance is that the rules regarding compulsory wearing of masks and maintaining social distancing must be followed by all. Political leaders and actors should set an example which could be followed by the members of the public.”