KATHMANDU, May 22: President Bidya Devi Bhandari has issued an ordinance which has now paved the way for the government to impose a state of emergency in the country to contain further spread of COVID-19 pandemic if deemed necessary.
The COVID-19 Risk Management Ordinance, 2078 BS issued by President Bhandari states that the government can enforce a state of emergency across the country or in any parts of the country if COVID-19 infection poses a serious threat to public health or if the pandemic is seen to spread further.
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It is also mentioned in the ordinance that the government can deploy any health workers associated with any institutions in COVID-19 management. The government can also order business and other activities to remain closed or operate adopting safety measures.
There is a provision in the ordinance that those obstructing the implementation of the order can be sentenced a jail term of one year or fined as high as Rs 500,000. Those defying the order can also be sentenced a jail-term of six months or fined as high as Rs 300,000.