Exactly two years and nine days after the Covid-19 clampdown, Maharashtra is free of all pandemic-related curbs, including mandatory masking and double vaccination for using public transport or entry into public spaces, from April 2, which marks Gudi Padwa, the Marathi New Year. Maharashtra’s move was echoed by the Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) which decided to do away with the fine for not wearing face masks in public places, sources said. The authority, however, is going to issue an advisory asking people to continue wearing face masks and follow other Covid appropriate behaviour.
The Maharashtra cabinet lifted the Disaster Management Act, 2005, and the Epidemic Diseases Act, 1897, that was imposed for Covid management in the state.
Delhi lieutenant governor Anil Baijal chaired DDMA’s Covid-19 review meeting. “The mandate to wear face masks has not been removed but those found not wearing a mask in public places would not be penalised anymore. However, they will be advised to wear a mask and follow other safety measures,” an official said on the condition of anonymity.
Masks not must in Haryana
The Haryana government has also decided to do away with imposing a fine for not wearing masks in public places but said that wearing it and observing Covid-appropriate behaviour was desirable. The decision came amid a significant dip in Covid cases in the state. The government has, however, advised the public to wear face masks, follow hand washing, use sanitisers frequently and maintain social distancing. “The State government notification which made wearing of face mask by each person while being in public places and workplace was made mandatory, is hereby withdrawn with immediate effect," the order issued by the additional chief secretary (health) stated.
