Implement lockdown strictly, says Madras High Court Chief Justice
Madras High Court Chief Justice Sanjib Banerjee on Wednesday expressed disappointment over the police not imposing strictly the continuing lockdown in Tamil Nadu to battle COVID-19. He mentioned it appeared as if the lockdown had been lifted and it was “party time” on the roads.
The Chief Justice broached the topic with Advocate General R. Shunmugasundaram and mentioned it was stunning to seek out folks shifting about on the roads as a matter of routine, although the lockdown was nonetheless in pressure and only some relaxations had been offered for the comfort of the folks.
“We have just eased a few things for the convenience of the citizens. But if you walk on the streets, it appears that it is party time. There is business as usual. We, the public, must follow what is in our best interest. We must inculcate a sense of discipline in us,” the Chief Justice informed the Advocate General.
In reply, Mr. Shunmugasundaram mentioned, “Your Lordship may recall that policemen were beating up people. Now, strict instructions have been given not to beat people and just to ask them about their documents, e-passes, etc. Now, they are handling softly and politely,” he mentioned.
Asking the A-G to make sure that enforcement of lockdown doesn’t turn out to be a political problem, the Chief Justice mentioned police may create consciousness amongst folks via the general public tackle system and ask them to not roam about unnecessarily on the roads and crowd at public locations. It ought to be performed notably in Coimbatore and neighbouring districts, he mentioned.
Adding a phrase of warning that his intention was to not advise the police on what to do or what to not do, the Chief Justice mentioned he was solely impressing upon the necessity to implement the prevailing lockdown.
“It appears as if the lockdown is over. In the High Court, we are maintaining all kinds of restrictions but if you go out to the streets, it appears as if it is party time,” the CJ added.
Stating that he completely understands the feelings expressed by the court docket, the A-G mentioned he would advise the police authorities appropriately.