The Union Home Ministry in a letter to Chief Secretary and DGP of West Bengal objected to the violation of lockdown in the state. “…gradual dilution of lockdown has been reported from West Bengal, with an increase in the number of exceptions being provided by the state government,” the MHA letter said.
“It has been reported that police has been allowing religious congregations. Free ration has been distributed not through institutional delivery but by political leaders. This may have resulted in spread of COVID19 infection,” the letter further stated.
It pointed out that shops relating to non-essential items have been allowed to function and the social-distancing norms are being violated at the market places across the state.
The ministry said such activities are in violation of the central government’s orders issued from time to time under the Disaster Management Act, 2005 and are accountable for penal action under the Act.
“It is requested that strict action be taken in the matter and a report in this regard may be furnished to this Ministry urgently. It is further requested to take measures to prevent recurrence of such violations in future,” it added.
(Internet inputs)