The local management bodies have also sought stricter fines for those flouting rules
A BMC marshal fines people for not wearing masks at Crawford Market
The city’s Advanced Locality Management (ALM) bodies are not only supporting the stricter curbs imposed by Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray across the state, but are also of the opinion that stricter fines should be imposed on those found without masks, not maintaining social distancing and spitting in public.
ADVERTISEMENT
Anthony Dsouza, a member of Bandra’s Sherly ALM, told mid-day, “I think the CM’s decision is perfect. In the past couple of days, entire families have got infected. The situation in my locality is scary.” Dsouza said the 15-day janata curfew was a “reasonable” one and the onus was on citizens to follow the rules. “It isn’t a police state where you will be apprehended if you step out of your homes, but this just means that everyone has to be aware and understand their responsibilities as citizens.”
“Anyone saying the CM has not done the right thing hasn’t contracted Coronavirus. I know what it’s like and what kind of stress one goes through when they are infected. I suffered from it last November,” he said. Dsouza added that it was the responsibility of the ALMs and societies to ensure that rules were followed.
Anandini Thakoor from Khar ALM said, “I’m very much in favour of the stricter curbs as it’s the need of the hour. People abuse whatever little freedom is given to them. People in my locality don’t wear masks, have parties and gatherings at gyms. It’s quite bad here at the Khar 17th road.”
She said people in her locality were not even informing on testing positive. “People need to be careful and not move out of their homes. Spitting is one of the main reasons why the infection is spreading.
We are now in the process of approaching the police to take this up. We have also shut down our Kamlabai Nimbkar study hall, which is used by underprivileged kids. I’m harassed every second day and asked to reopen as exams are nearing, but I can’t take a chance, as there are about 150 children. I know it’s difficult for them but I can’t take the risk.”