COVID-19 patients violating home isolation instructions in Punjab will have to shell out ₹5,000 as fine, as per the new guidelines announced on Thursday by Chief Minister Amarinder Singh. The Chief Minister also announced imposition of ₹5,000 as fine for owners of restaurants and commercial eateries violating social distancing norms, to ensure that people do not defy the restrictions put in place to check the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic. Further, violation of social distancing norms and social gatherings with people more than the permitted strength will lead to a penalty amounting to ₹10,000, said Mr. Singh at a video conference meeting called to review the situation and preparedness in the State. The penalties announced are in addition to those announced earlier in May for not wearing a mask in public places (₹500), violation of home quarantine instructions (₹200) and spitting at public places (₹500). Currently there are 951 patients in home isolation across the State, the statement added.

Source: The Hindu July 23, 2020 16:39 UTC