Groom arrested hours before marriage in Odisha for flouting COVID-19 norms

Phulbani: While it is being propagated to maintain social distancing and stay indoors to arrest the spread of COVID-19, a youth was today arrested for organizing marriage party in Odisha.

The youth identified as Parameswar Bhukta of Nuapada village under Phiringia police limits in Kandhamal district was arrested by the local police for flouting COVID-19 norms.

Sources said that around 60 to 80 people had come to attend the marriage function which is in violation of the order of District Magistrate under section 144 of CrPC. Bhukta was thus arrested for flouting the norms.

In another case, a youth, Biju kanhar of village Khajurigaon under Gochhapada GP and his brother were arrested from Biju’s marriage ceremony conducted at the village. The duo was held for disobeying orders issued by the State government. The police registered a case 19/20 at Gochhapada PS.

Similarly, 16 persons were today arrested across Odisha for flouting COVID-19 norms. While 11 persons were arrested in Phulbani for not downing shutters, 5 persons from Bhadrak were arrested on similar charges.

The state is heading for a complete lockdown as nine more districts were added to the list.

The state government had been appealing to the people not to congregate at a place and avoid gatherings. Besides, it has been urging to postpone all social functions, meetings and celebrations, in the backdrop of coronavirus outbreak.