PANAJI/MARGAO
Despite the Covid-19 pandemic widening its potent bite across Goa, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant gave in to the pressure of lending momentum to economic activity on the crutches of the Centre's 'unlock 4.0' guidelines and permitted bars to open from Tuesday.
Sawant's government also gave the thumbs-up to the Union Ministry of Home Affairs' missive to open the borders sans any restrictions from Tuesday but was however silent on decision to re-start schools.
“Decision on starting schools has not yet been taken. At least for the next one month schools may not start. Decision will be taken as per MHA guidelines,” Sawant said.
He said, "bars and restaurants are being allowed to operate". Measures of physical distancing as well as use of masks and sanitisers will have to strictly be followed, he added.
Meanwhile travellers will be permitted to enter the State without any restrictions.
Sawant said: “Instructions of MHA’s new guidelines will be followed from tomorrow. Inter-State movement of people has been allowed. It has been stated that the test should not be made compulsory.”
South Goa district Collector, Ajit Roy, meanwhile on Monday imposed Section 144 of the CrPC, restricting the marriage-related gatherings with number of guests exceeding 50 and funeral last rites related gatherings with number of person exceeding 20 till September 20.
Ban on marriage-related gathering having more than 100 persons and ban on funeral last rites with a ceiling of 100 persons will continue after September 20.
The notification imposing Section 144 of the CrPC has imposed ban/restrictions on schools, colleges, educational and coaching institutions for students and regular class activity, swimming pools, cinema halls, theatres (excluding open air theatres) multiplexes.
Similarly, the notification has banned social, political, sports, entertainment, academic, cultural, religious functions and other large congregations till September 20. Ban on such functions and gatherings with a ceiling of 100 persons will continue after September 20.
The notification has further impose ban/restrictions on entertainment parks, river cruises and casinos, with the Collector warning that any person contravening the order shall be punishable under section 188 of the IPC.
In the order issued late Monday, the Collector stated that it is necessary to take exigent measure in this regard so as to prevent any danger to human life or safety, to thwart the spread of coronavirus, which may affect the overall security of the state and may create disturbance of larger public order and tranquility.
