Only virtual political events allowed till December 15

Tribune News Service

Shimla, December 1

The Cabinet today decided to curb all actual political functions, barring ministers, MLAs and MPs from holding inaugurations, stone-laying and other functions till December 15. The decision was taken at a meeting chaired by Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur.

The ministers and MLAs can address functions virtually to avoid big gatherings at political functions.

The Cabinet gave nod to penal action in case the cap on 50 persons at any social gathering is violated. A fine of Rs 5,000 will be imposed under the Police Act and the Disaster Management Act in case of the violation of norms, and a prior permission will have to be obtained from the local SDM.

“It is with a heavy heart that we have decided to take these harsh decision, having provision for fine and imprisonment, but then we have been left with no other option,” said Urban Development Minister Suresh Bhardwaj. The Cabinet decided to undertake random sampling for the early detection of Covid cases, besides strict enforcement of norms in the containment zones to break the chain.

It was decided that all ministers would ensure the effective implementation of the Him Suraksha Abhiyan in their assigned districts. They would also ensure effective steps to contain the spread of the infection at all levels.

Mahila mandals would be co-opted into the abhiyan. Young volunteers would also be involved in the drive.

The Cabinet decided to establish an Atal Tunnel security unit in Kullu and Lahaul-Spiti districts for security and other matters related to the Rohtang Tunnel. At least 64 posts of different categories — 32 each in Kullu and Lahaul-Spiti districts — will be created for the purpose. Each security unit will be given two 4x4 vehicles and a motorcycle for effective traffic management and security policing

The Cabinet decided to make provision for open sky parking in the Himachal Pradesh Town and Country Planning Rules, 2014.

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