As the coronavirus spreads rapidly in the state with no signs of stopping, the Maharashtra government has decided strict action against people found spitting, blowing their nose in public, or smoking. Maharashtra continues to be the epicentre of the coronavirus spread where the number of cases has witnessed an even large spike recently. COVID-19 is a contagious disease that can spread through the acts of coughing, sneezing, and spitting of the infected patient. Under the Bombay Police Act, BMC is imposing a fine of Rs 1,000 to Rs 5,000 for the first three offences of spitting and smoking in public. Meanwhile, under the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COPTA), 2003, smoking in public places was banned.

Source: dna May 30, 2020 07:18 UTC