MHA issues clarification on new order of opening of shops

Srinagar (PTK) The Union ministry of home affairs (MHA) has issued a clarification on its new order allowing opening of shops.

As per a press released issued by the MHA, the order dated April 24, 2020 on amendments in the consolidated revised guidelines on lockdown measures to allow opening of shops implies that:

* In rural areas, all shops, except those in shopping malls are allowed to open.

* In urban areas, all standalone shops, neighbourhood shops and shops in residential complexes are allowed to open. Shops in markets/ market complexes and shopping malls are not allowed to open.

Meanwhile, the MHA clarified that sale by e-commerce companies will continue to be permitted only for essential goods.

The ministry further clarified that sale of liquor and other items continues to be prohibited as specified in the national directives for COVID-19 management.

However, as specified in the consolidated revised guidelines, the shops will not be permitted to open in areas, whether rural or urban, which are declared as containment zones by respective states or union territories.

The order issued by the Union ministry of home affairs on Friday