Coronavirus / Rajasthan extends imposition of section 144 across state by a month till May 21

Jaipur: In an attempt to stem the rising coronavirus cases, the Ashok Gehlot government on Tuesday ordered Section 144 of the CrPC to be imposed across the state from April 22 to May 21. The Rajasthan government had imposed a night curfew from April 16 till April 30.

Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot assured people that his government was taking all adequate steps to tackle the coronavirus situation in the state.

While assuring people that the government was taking steps to robust the health infrastructure to tackle the COVID spread, Gehlot urged people to register for the chief minister's Chiranjeevi Health Insurance Scheme which covers treatment expenses for coronavirus.

"Constant monitoring is being done and all arrangements are being made to ensure that people do not suffer. The focus of the state government is on public health, therefore, we have announced Chiranjeevi Health Insurance Scheme which is going to be implemented from May 1," Gehlot said.

The Rajasthan CM said that official shave been directed to ensure the appropriate treatment to COVID patients and also increase the number of beds in hospitals.

"The demand for ventilators, oxygen and beds is increasing and all arrangements will be made," he said.

"Health is our priority sector, so, we introduced the 'Nirogi Rajasthan' campaign in 2019. Its vision is to make people aware about living a healthy lifestyle. It is a unique programme on preventive healthcare that motivated people to stay healthy during the pandemic last year," Gehlot said.

Rajasthan recorded 11,967 fresh COVID-19 cases on April 19, taking the tally to 4,26,584. As per the latest data released by the health department, the death toll increased to 3,204 as 53 more people succumbed to the deadly contagious virus.

Meanwhile, lockdown-like restrictions under the ''Jan Anushasan Pakhwada'' began in the state on April and will remain in force till May 3.

During the 'Jan Anushasan Pakhwada' period, shops except those selling essential items will remain closed.

The district collectors have been ordered to hold COVID-19 vaccination camps for people above 45 years in highly infected areas in Rajasthan.