Pernem police have been consistently booking people for not wearing masks in public places. The Corporation of the City of Panaji (CCP) has collected Rs 58,000 from locals as well as tourists for not wearing masks. It is learned that people have been arguing with those issuing the fines after these were increased from Rs 100 to Rs. 200. This is a clear sign that people are feeling the pinch of paying the fine. However, not wearing the mask should also mean not wearing it properly. Many people are seen wearing the mask on the chin. What is also important is the location where people are not wearing a mask. It seems prudent to penalize people only if they are not wearing a mask in crowded places. It does not seem necessary to wear a mask when a person is alone or a family is all by themselves far away from a crowd. It does not seem proper to fine those who do not wear a mask in isolated places. People also need to breathe in fresh air which a mask can hamper. It would also seem desirable for the staff, as well as the police issuing the penalty, to carry some masks in plastic packets along with them which they can distribute to those not possessing one after making them pay the fine. This will send the right message to the violators.
