Odisha cop without mask fined Rs 2000

Puri:  All are equal in the eyes of law.  Proving this, the Puri police today imposed a fine of Rs 2,000 on an on-duty traffic constable posted in the pilgrim town for violating COVID-19 guidelines by not wearing face mask.

Puri SP Samarth Verma took to his Twitter handle and shared the news today.

“We have fined our own Traffic constable of Rs 2000 for not wearing mask. And he, as a responsible citizen has paid,” the SP tweeted.

In his post, the SP cautioned the public to always wear mask, else pay the penalty.

On being brought to our notice, we have fined our own Traffic constable ₹2000 for not wearing mask. And he, as a responsible citizen has paid. Wear Mask always; Or Pay the fine. There is no alternative@DGPOdisha @odisha_police @cmo_odisha @SRC_Odisha @SecyChief @Puri_Official pic.twitter.com/obnlr7GbAE

— Puri Police (@SPPuri1) April 13, 2021

On April 9, Odisha Government doubled the fine amount for violation of mask-wearing norm. Accordingly, violators will have to pay Rs 2,000 for first two violations and Rs 5,000 for subsequent offences.

The same day, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik,  in a video message addressing the people of the state, initiated 14-day ‘Mask Abhiyaan’ and urged them to wear mask properly for the said number of days in order to make it a habit.

Earlier, the fine amount was Rs 1,000 for first two violations and Rs 5,000 for subsequent offences.