Amid Omicron Scare Delhi Disaster Management Authority Bans Christmas, New Year Gatherings

Delhi: With the number of Omicron cases is witnessing an upward trend Delhi Disaster Management Authority has called for a ban on Christmas or New Year events or gatherings in the city.

It has directed that "all District Magistrates and DCPs shall ensure that no cultural event/ gatherings/ congregations take place for celebrating Christmas or New Year in NCT of Delhi," as per its December 15 order, which prohibits all social, political, sports, entertainment, cultural, religious, and festival-related gatherings.

"As a result, all District Magistrates and District DCPs should undertake surprise checks/raids in their respective regions and take harsh disciplinary action against violators..." says DDMA 

These restrictions have been extended until midnight on December 31. The DDMA, on the other hand, stated that the already approved and restricted activities in Delhi will continue until the night of December 31 and January 1 (12.00 hours).

The news comes as six more instances of Covid's Omicron variant were discovered in Delhi on December 20, bringing the total number of persons who have tested positive for the coronavirus's newest form to 28. At least 12 patients have been discharged, according to reports.

With an increase in coronavirus infections in Delhi, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal announced that all samples that test positive for the virus will henceforth be sent for genome sequencing.

Similarly, Karnataka Chief Minister Besavaraj Bommai published new Christmas and New Year guidelines yesterday, stating that no parties or large gatherings will be allowed in the state from December 30 to January 2. The state administration has voted to make it illegal to hold large meetings in the city and other public sites throughout the state.

Meanwhile, the Mumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has encouraged residents to shun gatherings and parties over the impending Christmas and New Year holidays.

In India, the number of cases of the fast-spreading strain Omicron has grown to 213, with the majority of infections reported in Delhi and Maharashtra.

Also Read: Omicron 3 times more transmissible than Delta: Centre

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