Meghalaya HC asks govt to caution public on consequences of violating quarantine protocols

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaMay 27, 2020

The Meghalaya High Court has asked the state authorities to caution the public about adhering to the quarantine advisories and the consequences for violation of the same.

Hearing a PIL on Wednesday, the bench comprising of Justice HS Thangkhiew and Justice W Diengdoh said one aspect which deserves urgent consideration is the measures to be taken for persons especially the returnees to the state who are in home quarantine, who are to be made aware as to the crucial importance of adhering to the protocols as prescribed.

With regard to any violation of the quarantine protocol, it also felt necessary that such persons be also made aware of the consequences and the repercussions under the law.

“It is therefore directed in the interim that the State respondents through the media or public address system shall decimate the necessary information and to caution the public about adhering to the home quarantine advisories and also the consequences of the violation thereof,” the bench said.

The PIL filed by one Joannes JTL Lamare was taken up as Misc. application via video conferencing.  

As the matter is of common cause to the PIL filed by the Meghalaya High Court Bar Association, the counsels for the petitioner Association have expressed their willingness to assist the Court in this regard and pray that they be allowed to file an affidavit in reply to the report filed by the State respondents.

Accordingly, the bench has directed that the matter be listed on June 1, for affidavit/suggestions by the petitioner association and for further orders.

Earlier, the state respondents in compliance with the order passed on May 21, have filed a voluminous affidavit on the measures with regard to quarantine, which have been adopted and stated to be implemented.