KOCHI: State government should take a policy decision on the demand for allowing shops to open every day, the Kerala High Court said on Thursday.
It is a serious matter and the government should decide on allowing shops to open by following Covid-19 protocol, justice TR Ravi said. If the protocol is not being followed, the shops should be closed and police’s intervention may be required in such an effort to an extent, the court added. The court also asked the government to inform details of Test Positivity Rate and the restrictions being imposed on its basis.
A petition filed by Kerala Textiles and Garments Dealers Welfare Association seeking a court directive to the government to allow clothing stores and jewellery stores to open on all days is being considered by the court. It is alleged by the petitioner that Indian Medical Association (IMA) has recommended for allowing shops to open on all days.
State government informed the court that the restrictions on opening of shops have been imposed on the basis of an expert committee, which includes officials of disaster management authority.
The court said such measures have not resulted in reduction of crowds and that social distancing is not being maintained. However, people are wearing masks as it has become a habit, the court said. The government submitted that cooperation of the public is required. The court retorted that only strict action will bring about proper compliance. The court will consider the case again on July 22nd.
