The decision was met with criticism from the Opposition, trade unionists, and social activists. Observing that although the DGHS is mentioned as the competent authority, Kumarapperuma explained: “However, the DGHS cannot issue regulations or directives. Kumarapperuma further said: “That decision has to be taken by the health authorities, and not the Police. There should be a valid explanation from the health authorities to send a person to quarantine. The SJB also filed three fundamental rights (FR) petitions at the Supreme Court last Friday (9) challenging the arrests of trade union activists using the quarantine law.

Source: The Nation July 10, 2021 18:00 UTC