The whole country is now under lockdown under the Disaster Management Act. On Tuesday, 24 March, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that the entire country would be going into lockdown to deal with the coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis for the next 21 days.
What are the Penalties for Violating Modi's Coronavirus Lockdown?
The lockdown has been put in place using an order under the Disaster Management Act 2005.
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued an order to the Centre, as well as all State/Union Territory governments to take effective measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in India.
As part of the order, the NDMA has issued guidelines to the Centre/State/UT governments with directions for strict implementation. These guidelines have listed out the penalties for violation of the lockdown, as per the Disaster Management Act - which also include spreading fake news about the Coronavirus pandemic.
'India on Lockdown From Midnight': PM Modi's Address on COVID-19
Offences and Penalties Under Disaster Management Act
Sections 51-60 of the Disaster Management Act set out the offences and penalties under it, which would apply to violations of the lockdown order.
Obstruction (Section 51)
If you obstruct a government servant from carrying out their duties, or refuse to comply with any directions issued by the Centre/State governments or the NDMA.
PENALTY: Up to 1 year's imprisonment + fine. If your actions lead to loss of lives, then upto 2 years' imprisonment + fine.
False Warnings (Section 54)
If you make or circulate a false alarm or warning about the disaster, or its severity, leading to panic.
Read more on: The Quint
