Pune: Despite the surge in COVID-19 cases in Pune, people defy lockdown style curfew in the city. Reviewing the situation, Pune Police Commissioner Amitabh Gupta has now cautioned people about the ‘strict’ action against those flouting norms.

The world we once knew has changed due to the ongoing COVID pandemic. However, the restrictions are flouted by thousands of people, who refuse to take the pandemic seriously. It started with virus rebels or ‘Covidiots’ as they were dubbed, turning up to convenience stores without a mask. 13 months into the pandemic and the virus rebels are still flouting rules.

“People are following all norms of weekend lockdown and are adhering all protocols of curfew also. We appeal to Puneties not to travel unnecessarily as it can help to curtail the further spread of the virus. But despite many appeals, some people are seen travelling around the city without any valid reason. We have ordered all police stations to take legal actions as well as take stringent steps against the violators,” said Amitabh Gupta.

Earlier, Pune Police Joint Commissioner Dr Ravindra Shisve has already said that people travelling without a valid reason may face strict action, as well as their vehicle, can be seized.

Notwithstanding the state government’s appeal not to step out of homes without a reason, people are travelling around the city without any reason. Though the state has issued curfew orders from 8 pm, the curfew in the city starts at 6 pm. There are many youths seen travelling around the city claiming that they are out to buy essentials. Still, many ‘chowks’ or bylanes in the city can be seen with groups chatting and roaming around. Even many are seen taking a stroll in the evening. Especially, senior citizens who are at more risk of getting transmitted are seen taking a ‘walk’ in the evening.

As the State government has asked the police force not to take stringent actions against those defying the norms, the police force across the State was busy persuading people not to come out of their homes without reasons.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray declared a lockdown style curfew in the State for 15 days, the implementation of which started on April 14. According to the guidelines declared by the State government, Section 144 is imposed for 15 days and no one would be allowed to move in public places without a valid reason.