Manipur: Wearing Face Masks in Public Spaces Made Mandatory amid Corona Scare

Imphal, April 11, 2020:

Manipur has made it mandatory to wear masks in public spaces from Saturday onwards in a bid to protect its citizens from getting infected with the coronavirus.

Manipur Government, in an order issued on Friday stated, "Whereas, many experts have opined that the use of masks to cover one's nose and mouth not only helps in preventing spread from a COVID-19 infected person to others but also helps a healthy person from being infected by the virus; Now, therefore, the Governor of Manipur is pleased to order that all persons who come out in public space will have to wear a mask covering the person's nose and mouth in public interest."

The order also said that the order would stay in effect until further notice is issued.

ALSO READ: Assam Tea Gardens to Resume Functions with Strict Adherence to COVID-19 Protocol

It may be mentioned here that Manipur currently has two positive cases of coronavirus and the State has been taking initiatives to help people cope with the pandemic. Manipur recently introduced a website and an application for the public to keep a track of the corona status.

Manipur Government has also relaxed the ongoing lockdown for a day for sale of essential commodities on Saturday, which means that the people will be able to buy the required essentials ahead of the Easter Sunday and Cheiraoba celebrations. Vegetable vendors have been asked to adhere to social distancing norms during the sale.

ALSO READ: Racism towards Northeast Indians must not go Unpunished: Meghalaya CM Conrad K Sangma

However, the Ima Keithel (women markets) in Imphal will continue to remain closed. All petrol pumps will also be allowed to open for sale for public under the condition of maintain social distancing norms, informed CAF&PD commissioner Bobby Waikhom in a statement.

Earlier, shops selling essentials were allowed to open on alternate days to avoid mass gatherings and to exercise proper social distancing amid the coronavirus outbreak.

ALSO READ: Assam COVID-19: Adequate Stock of PPE Kits & N95 Masks Available, Says Health Minister

However, following the reports of a 65-year-old man from Lilong area in Imphal testing positive for coronavirus, the state went for a complete lockdown from April 5 to intensify the containment process of the deadly virus in the state.

Meanwhile, India has recorded a total of 6565 active cases of coronavirus with 239 deaths. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is in talks with the Chief Ministers on whether the lockdown should be extended for another term.

Support Inside Northeast (InsideNE), an independent media platform that focuses on Citizen-centric stories from Northeast India that are surprising, inspiring, cinematic and emotionally relevant.