While Delhi police have been fining people for not wearing masks even when driving alone in their cars, the Health Ministry said Thursday that it is not mandatory for a person to wear a mask if they are not accompanied by any other person.
Union health secretary Rajesh Bhushan said Thursday that the guidelines released by the Union Health Ministry say nothing about whether a person driving a car on their own should wear a mask.
“Regarding exercise, you must have seen that there has been an increased awareness of physical activities among people. You must have seen people cycling and jogging in groups of two or three, ”Bhushan said.
He said that when such activities are carried out, people should wear masks and maintain social distancing to ensure they don’t infect each other. “However, if you are cycling alone, then the guide does not say anything about wearing a mask,” added Bhushan.
When asked, a senior Delhi police officer said that to date they are following guidelines issued by the Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), dated June 13, which say that anyone not wearing a face mask in a public place will be liable for a fine. from ₹ 500.
“Because a car is considered a public place, we are imposing fines. Any officer of the rank of deputy inspector or higher may impose the fine. We have not yet received a written order stating otherwise. As soon as we receive the new directives, we will start following them, ”the police officer said.
On average, the Delhi Police have been fining 1,200 to 1,500 people every day for traveling in a vehicle without masks.
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