Coronavirus: Not wearing a mask? Be ready to shell out Rs 500 in Punjab

Vishav Bharti
Tribune News Service
Chandigarh, May 29 

If you are not wearing a mask, be ready to pay a fine of Rs 500 in Punjab. Coming down heavily on those who fail to comply with the COVID-19 guidelines, the state government on Friday notified penalties—ranging from Rs 500 to 3,000—for violations.

As per a notification issued by the Director, Health Services, those who don't wear a mask in public places will be imposed with a penalty of Rs 500. For violating home quarantine instructions, a fine of Rs 2,000 will be applicable. Those who are found spitting in a public place will be charged a penalty of Rs 500.

Apart from that, the health department has also notified a penalty of Rs 2,000 if owners of shops/commercial places violate social distancing norms.

Vehicle owners will also be fined for violating social distancing norms. As per the notification, violations in buses will attract a penalty of Rs 3,000, cars Rs 2,000 and auto-rickshaws/two-wheelers Rs 500.

All officials not below the post of BDPO, Naib Tehsildar, ASI or any other official authorised by Deputy Commissioner can impose the aforementioned penalties under the provisions of Epidemic Disease Act, 1897.

Non-payment of the fine by the violator will attract proceedings under Section 188 of IPC as per the regulations framed under the Epidemic Disease Act, 1897.