Police fine over 11,000 people for not wearing masks in Goa

PANAJI: Goa police have fined over 11,000 people for not wearing masks in public, and 6,500 for spitting. Wearing a mask in public places has been compulsory in Goa since April 27.
Goa police has also registered around 40,000 violations since lockdown began. This includes 1,335 arrests — 554 in North Goa and 781 in South Goa. Also, 738 FIRs have been registered pertaining to lockdown violations. Police patrolling has been intensified across the state.
A government order issued last month had said that violators would be fined Rs 100 for non-compliance. Additionally, those refusing to pay are liable to be prosecuted under Section 188 IPC, which involves six months imprisonment and a fine of Rs 1,000, or both.
The government had said that face covers, which include masks, are available with chemists, and homemade masks can also be used and reused after proper washing and disinfecting.
The government order had states that face covers must be used in all public places and work places — including streets, hospitals and at working sites. Meanwhile, after confidential lab reports about Covid-19 were circulated on social media, IGP Jaspal Singh cautioned the public against sharing such information, failing which they would face action. He also said that for any verification of authenticity, citizens should call the 112 helpline.