THIS STORY WAS UPDATED ON 26 MAR 2020

There has since been a national lockdown announced by the Prime Minister, where the whole country, following the example of Karnataka and few other states, are under lockdown, presently for three weeks, until 14 April 2020. 

Due to the coronavirus pandemic or COVID 19, the Government of Karnataka has announced a statewide lockdown until midnight of 1 April, 2020 (night of 31 March, 2020). This lockdown will take effect from midnight of 23 March, 2020.

This is an effort to combat the spread of the virus which has affected over 20 people and resulted in one death. The Epidemic Act of 1897 has been invoked with the regulations adapted for Karnataka Epidemic Diseases (COVID 19) Regulations in 2020.

No gatherings of more than five persons are allowed to be in public places. This includes prayers, festivals and other gatherings. Inter-state and inter-district buses and transport vehicles are also stopped. Ola, Uber, autos and other transport vehicles are also to be stopped during this time. The only exception is if the vehicle is procuring essentials needed during this period. All shops, offices, warehouses, and godowns are urged to follow the lockdown. 

However, all services providing essentials are to remain open. This includes grocers, supermarkets, petrol bunks, hospitals and pharmacies, utility services like electricity and water, ATMs, home delivery of goods as well as food, and bulk drinking water suppliers. All government and local bodies remain operational.

Private operations like drug manufacturers, and mask producers helping to stop the transmission of COVID 19 to continue operations. 

The Commissioner, BBMP, Deputy Commissioner, Police Commissioner and authorised officers will take a call on relaxing these measures if it is causing hindrance to the public.

Those disobeying the orders are liable under the Epidemic Diseases Act, the Disaster Management Act, Section 188 of Indian Penal Code and other relevant acts. Though no legal proceedings will be carried out against those acting in good faith of this order or intending to do good.