Social distancing violation to attract fine in Odisha’s twin cities

Bhubaneswar: In view of congregation of people in market areas despite lockdown restrictions, the Odisha Government has empowered the Twin City Police Commissionerate to impose fine up to Rs 500 on those violating social distancing norms in Bhubaneswar and Cuttack cities.

“Officers above the rank of ASI of Police are hereby empowered for compounding offences under these regulations which includes a fine that may extend to Rs 500,” an official order of the State Government’s Home Department said

Offence by an owner of a shop/commercial establishment/employee/customer will be punishable by a fine that may extend to Rs 500 as provided under Section 96(d) of the Odisha Urban Police Act, Twin City Police Commissionerate sources said.

These regulations will come into effect from May 1, 2020 and will continue for a period of sixty days unless revoked or extended.