Kochi: The High Court has banned protests in the wake of coronavirus outbreak. The High Court directed that the guidelines of the Central Government should be strictly followed. The court observed that the state government’s guideline that 10 people can take part in protests was against the central directives.
The order comes in the midst of ongoing protests across the state over the gold smuggling scandal. Two petitions have been filed in the High Court alleging that such protests could lead to the spread of the coronavirus.
Taking these petitions into consideration, the High Court banned protests and strikes in the state till July 31.
The High Court made it clear that if any protest or strike happen in the state, State Police Chief and Chief Secretary will be held liable for it. The court also ordered that notices be issued to all political parties.