Telangana govt extends ban on rallies, mass gatherings and cultural events till Jan 10

The State government on Saturday has extended prohibition to hold rallies, public meetings and mass gatherings of all kinds including religious, political and cultural events till January 10.

Chief Secretary, Somesh Kumar in a Government Order (GO Ms No 1) on Saturday said that the orders prohibiting all mass gatherings will come into force immediately and continue to remain in force till January 10.

“Considering the reported increase in Covid-19 cases in certain states of the country, it is decided to impose further precautionary measures to control the spread of the disease. Activities including rallies, public meetings and mass gatherings of all types including religious, political and cultural events,” the order said.

The State government has has also directed managements of public transport, shops, malls, establishments, offices to ensure strict compliance of mandatory wearing of face masks, physical distancing, frequent sanitization of premises and screening at entry points with IR thermometers or thermal scanners.

The managements of schools and educational



institutions shall ensure that all staff and students wear masks and follow Covid appropriate behaviour. All persons should adhere to Covid appropriate behaviour including wearing of masks in public places, maintaining physical distance, hand hygiene, etc, the GO said.

Senior citizens and persons with comorbidities are specifically advised to exercise precautions against Covid-19.

The CS has passed on the directions to all Collectors, District Magistrates, Commissioners/Superintendents of Police to strictly implement the above measures.

Earlier, the Chief Secretary on Saturday also held a review meeting with senior officials from various government departments to strictly implement Covid-19 safety protocols. The CS directed authorities from various government departments to intensify their efforts to ensure Covid safety protocols are implemented in all walks of life in Telangana.

Director General of Police (DGP) M Mahender Reddy, Secretary, Education, Sandeep Kumar Sultania, Secretary, Health, SAM Rizvi, DPH, Dr G Srinivasa Rao and other senior officials were present in the review meeting.