255 arrested in Kolkata for violating lockdown restrictions

Altogether 255 people have been arrested in Kolkata for defying the lockdown that began on Monday evening to prevent the spread of novel Coronavirus infection, police said on Tuesday.

The 255 arrested included pedestrians, those riding bicycles or travelling in other vehicles who remained outdoors after 5 p.m. on Monday when the lockdown ordered by the state government began, a police officer said.

People were also hauled up for taking part in gatherings on the road.

Cases would be filed against the offenders who would be prosecuted under section 188 (Disobedience to order duly promulgated by public servant) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), the officer said.

The lockdown has come into effect in large parts of West Bengal, including the whole of Kolkata and eight entire districts to combat the spread of Coronavirus infection, which has already claimed over 16,500 lives worldwide, including ten in India.

The lockdown, christened 'complete safety restrictions", covers all municipal and district towns besides some rural areas in other parts of the state tillAFriday midnight

Meanwhile, in an appeal through social media, city Police Commissioner Anuj Sharma has asked people to stay at home and cooperate with the administration.

"I appeal to all citizens to #StayHome and cooperate with the administration. @KolkataPolice will continue the drive against violators," Sharma tweeted.

West Bengal has so far recorded one death, while eight others detected with the virus are under treatment. However er, the state authorities are awaiting a second confirmatory test with regard to two of these people. IANS