In view of the rising numbers of COVID-19 cases in the NCT of Delhi (realizing the need for stricter compliance with the various directives issued by the Central Government and the Government of NCT Delhi from time to time), the Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) has issued the Delhi Epidemic Diseases, (Management of COVID-19) Regulations, 2020 (“Regulations”).
These Regulations empower Authorized Persons to impose a fine of Rs. 500 for the first offence and a further fine of Rs. 1000/- for repeated offences, with regard to violating the directives/guidelines pertaining to the following:
a. Observation of quarantine rules.
b. Maintaining of social distancing.
c. Wearing of Face mask/cover in all public places /workplaces.
d. Prohibition of spitting in public places.
e. Prohibition on consumption of paan, gutka, tobacco etc in public places.
For the purpose of these Regulations, the Authorised Persons include:
a. Secretary (Health & FW),GNCTD;
b. Director General Health Services (DGHS),GNCTD;
c. District Magistrate,
d. Chief District Medical Officer (CDMO),
e. Sub Divisional Magistrate (SDM) and District Surveillance Officer (DSO);
f. And such officers as may be authorized by Department of Health & Family Welfare, Government. of NCT of Delhi, District Magistrates and Zonal Deputy Commissioners of respective Municipal Corporations of Delhi;
g. The officers of the rank of Sub Inspector and above of Delhi Police.
If a person fails to pay the penalty on the spot, action under Section188 of the Indian Penal Code, 1860 shall be taken against him / her by the authorised police officer on receipt of a complaint from any Authorised Persons or on his own.
The Regulations have come into force since June 13, 2020 and will remain valid for a period of 1 year.
Source: Delhi Disaster Management Authority
