No lockdown in Karnataka for now: Health Minister

Karnataka Health Minister K Sudhakar, on Monday, ruled out assumptions of a lockdown, semi-lockdown or night curfew in the state, reiterating that there is no need for it "so early" and informed that the government is looking to strengthen existing safety protocols like wearing masks.

"We have gained enough experience to control this dreaded virus. Going by our fatality rates, it is proven that the pandemic definitely can be controlled," he said.

Denying government negligence or lack of expertise amidst health care professionals, he said, "Government can be at fault only when from its side something goes wrong. How much can a government do to tackle this pandemic? Under such circumstances, lockdown cannot be a solution at all... people will have to take this as a challenge and start enforcing wearing masks compulsorily."

He further added that a fine of Rs 250 would be imposed for not wearing masks, and vigilance would be increased at bordering areas as people's free movement has caused a rise in the number of infections.

"We have no other option but to impose fines to bring down the cases. As far as clusters are concerned, it has come to our notice that some people who had been asked to adhere to home quarantine had flouted, due to which cases have spiked in few apartments. These problems can be fixed by enforcing fine and other legal methods. But at the same time, if people across the state stop wearing masks, it will be difficult to control any pandemic. We need to adhere to wearing masks first," he added.