strict implementation in all parts of the Country

Please refer to MHA Order No. 40-3/2020-DM-I(A) dated 15t April 2020,

vide which consolidated revised guidelines on the measures to be taken by the

Ministries/ Departments of the Government of India, State/UT Governments and

State/UT Authorities for containment of COVID-19, has been circulated for the

strict implementation in all parts of the Country.

guidelines which, inter alia, mentions that (i) State/UT Governments shall not dilute

these guidelines under the Disaster Management Act, 2005 in any manner and shall

strictly enforce the same and (ii) State/ UT Governments, may, however, impose

stricter measures than these guidelines as per requirement of the local areas.

I would like to draw your kind attention to clause 4 (1) and (ii) of these

Your attention is also drawn to the Order dated 31.03.2020 in the Writ

Petition (Civil) No 468 of 2020, in which the Hon'ble Supreme Court is pleased to

observe that (quote) *we trust and expect that all concerned viz. State Governments,

Public Authorities and Citizens of this country will faithfully comply with the

directives and orders issued by the Union of India in letter and spirit in the interest

of public safety" (unquote). The observations, which must be treated as directions of

the Apex Court, was conveyed in my DO letter of even no dated Ist April 2020 to

all States/ UTs Governments.

It has come to notice that some of the States/ 0Ts are issuing orders allowing

activities which have not been allowed as per guidelines issued by MHA under the

Disaster Management Act, 2005.