Mumbai: Section 144 in the city has been enforced by the Mumbai police to restrict the presence or movement of one or more individuals, in religious areas and public places. The decision was taken today morning, as Mumbai city has the highest number of COVID-19 cases in India and is continuing to increase.

Pranaya Ashok, Deputy Commissioner of Police, Mumbai (Operations), issued an order in accordance with Article 144 banning the participation or movement in public areas or gatherings of any kind, including religious sites, by one or more people. This is subject to certain conditions.

This order will be effective throughout the day in containment areas, and in the entire town from 9:00 am to 5:00 am, subject to certain pre-defined exemptions, such as the supply of essential services and medical emergencies.

The order reads, "There is a likelihood of spread of the COVID-19 virus through the gathering of persons in public or private places and there is a grave danger to human life, health or safety. There are sufficient reasons for passing prohibitory orders under Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) to ensure that there is no danger to human life."

The state's capital Mumbai, has reported 893 new cases today, the biggest contributor of the state and country's tally of coronavirus cases, taking the total number to 77,658. Mumbai has a total of 4,556 deaths with 36 new deaths reported today. There are a total of 28,924 active cases in the city and 44,170 people have recovered.

On Tuesday, Maharashtra reported 4,878 new COVID-19 cases, taking the total number of infections to 1,74,761.