Any individual who requires exemption will be allowed only for a given period and purpose. (File)
Punjab has imposed curfew to stop the spread of coronavirus, becoming the first state to take the severe step to control the transmission of the highly contagious virus. The state resorted to curfew reportedly because people were found violating lockdown restrictions.
"After reviewing the situation with the Chief Secretary and the (police chief), announced a full curfew with no relaxations," Chief Minister Amarinder Singh tweeted.
"In the past few days, we have initiated legal action against violators of home quarantine. All measures being taken are for the larger good of everyone. While I am happy that everyone is cooperating, I will not let a few threaten the safety measures being taken," he said, adding the free food, shelter and medicines would be provided to those in need.
"Curfew was imposed as people were still coming out in large numbers. So the idea is to keep them inside," an official was quoted as telling Press Trust of India.
The deputy commissioners have been asked to issue the necessary orders, the spokesperson said.
Anybody seeking relaxations will be granted them for a given period and purpose, the spokesperson said.
During a curfew, citizens cannot be seen on the streets or public places. If they are, then they can be arrested or fined.
This is unlike a lockdown, when people are allowed to get essential commodities.
Punjab was also the first to ban all public transport as the number of coronavirus cases climbed in India last week.
There are 21 coronavirus cases in the state, which had earlier announced a complete lockdown except for essential services. One person has died.
Much of India – 19 states – have gone into full lockdown to try and break the chain of transmission at a critical stage, which, experts fear, could be just short of an exponential spread if severe measures are not taken.