Admit beggars, senior citizens to rehabilitation centres only after they test COVID-19 negative: Odisha Govt

Bhubaneswar: In a bid to ensure that the deadly virus  does not reach various institutions meant for beggars and abandoned or lonely senior citizens, Odisha Government has issued guidelines for all rehabilitation centres for beggars and old age homes operating in the state for admission of new inmates.

The Department of Social Security and Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities has written a letter to all district Collectors asking them to issue necessary instructions to such institutions in this regard and monitor the steps taken by them.

Though guidelines were earlier issued for strict observance of COIVD-19 guidelines, all rehabilitation centres should take adequate steps for ensuring prevention of Coronavirus in these institutions, said the letter.

“Since destitute beggars and senior citizens are being referred to these centres/ homes during this pandemic, all such institutions should take adequate steps for ensuring prevention of COVID-19,” the letter reads.

Guidelines for admission of new inmates to Rehabilitation Centres for Beggars and Old Age Homes: 

– In case of a newfound individual required to stay in any centre/ home is to be positively tested for COVID-19 and if found negative shall only be admitted to the same. Until such time their stay can be arranged by the local administration either in a transit house for the purpose or a COVID Care Centre, as the case may be.

-All the Centres/ Homes should admit only such persons with COVID-19 negative
certificates and/or persons who completed quarantine requirements, if any.

– Follow the COVID-19 guidelines issued by the Government from time to time and use all preventive care measures for which department has  also extended necessary supports.