Mumbai, Dec 22: The Mumbai Police on Wednesday issued prohibitory orders under Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) in the city till January 18, banning the assembly of four or more persons and other restrictions to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and maintain law and order.
The order came ahead of the Christmas and New Year celebrations, which are expected to attract large gatherings and public events. The police said the order was issued after receiving inputs from intelligence agencies about potential terror threats, especially targeting VVIPs.
The order also lists exemptions for weddings, processions for funerals, audiences at theatres, meetings of societies, clubs and companies. The police said they will strictly enforce the order and take action against any violation.
The order was issued by Deputy Commissioner of Police (Operations) Vishal Thakur on Wednesday morning. He said the order was not a curfew or a lockdown, but a routine measure to ensure public safety and health.
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He also appealed to the citizens to cooperate with the police and follow the COVID-19 guidelines such as wearing masks, maintaining social distance and avoiding unnecessary travel.
The order comes after several states imposed restrictions on movement and gatherings in view of the rising cases of Omicron variant of COVID-19. Maharashtra has reported over 2 lakh cases so far, with over 1 lakh recoveries. The state has also imposed night curfew in some areas from December 20th till January 18th.
