Amid the alarming increase in coronavirus cases, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA) has directed local administrations across the country to take action against those who do not wear masks outside their homes.

MoHA sent a circular to the local administrations of all 77 districts as well as the Nepal Police Headquarters on Monday and directed them to take action against those not wearing masks outside their homes.

Information Officer at MoHA, Uma Kanta Adhikari, informed that the Ministry’s circular was in line with the provisions of Infectious Disease Act, 2020, BS and was aimed at containing possible spread of COVID-19.

A person found in violation of Infectious Disease Act is liable to punishment of imprisonment for a term not exceeding one month or a fine not exceeding Rs 100, or both.

Adhikari added that the decision was taken as people had started to roam outside without following proper safety measures.