TN police warns stringent action against those violating lockdown norms

Chennai, May 1 () Expressing concern over violationof the prohibitory orders implemented to enforce the ongoinglockdown in the state, Tamil Nadu police on Friday made itclear any breach of Section 144.Cr.Pc will not be toleratedand warned of stringent action against those breaking thediktat.

The warning came hours after the Centre extended theongoing lockdown, in force to stem the spread of coronovirus,for two weeks effective May 4, albeit with some relaxationsand new set of guidelines.

Tamil Nadu police had earlier enforced the prohibitoryorders under Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code,banning the assembly of more than five persons.

"Many people are not following the Sec 144 cr. pcorder in toto and have been avoiding social distancing norms,"an official release from the state police headquarters heresaid.

As per 144 Cr.Pc., it was "illegal" for over fivepersons assembling at any location for whatever reason, itsaid.

"This rule applies to all functions, prayers andmeetings irrespective of caste, creed or religion. Therefore,Tamil Nadu police insists that public cannot violate the orderat any cost," it said.

Those violating the order will face "very strict legalaction," the police warned and urged people to extend totalcooperation to it in containing the spread of the contagion.

Meanwhile, continuing their clampdown against theviolators in the state, police have so far arrested a littleover 3.75 lakh people for 3.56 lakh cases of violation.

Police said as many as 3.17 lakh vehicles have beenseized, even as a sum of Rs 3.64 crore has been collected asfine. SA SS