The West Bengal government issued an order on Sunday, April 12, making the use of masks mandatory for citizens while stepping out of their houses.
The order said that in the absence of a mask, people can use a piece of cloth, either a handkerchief or any such material that can be used to cover a person’s nose and mouth.
“Mouth and nose should be covered by facial masks or any other available piece of cloth which may even include a properly folded or rolled dupatta, gamcha, handkerchief or any such material that acts as a protective cover,” said the order, signed by the Chief Secretary. “It is hereby directed that it shall be mandatory to use this cover always, especially when in public places.”