COVID-19 lockdown: Centre allows shops to open with conditions, malls to remain shut

The Union Home Ministry issued an order late night where it directed shopowners maintain certain norms like wearing masks and maintain social distancing.

"Giving relaxation in the category of Commercial and private establishments, MHA has issued an order to all States/UTs, to allow opening of all shops registered under Shops & Establishment Act of respective States/ UTs, including shops in residential complexes, neighborhood & standalone shops," read the government order.

"Shops in market complexes, except those within the limits of municipal corporations and municipalities, would be allowed to open. Shops in single & multi-brand malls would not be allowed to open anywhere," it said.

"It would be mandatory for all permitted shops to open only with 50% strength of workers, ensure compulsory wearing of masks and strict adherence to social distancing norms," it said.

The government said these relaxations in lockdown restrictions would not applicable in hotspots or containment zones.

The Indian government extended the nationwide lockdown till May 3 earlier this month. 

COVID-19 has claimed 775 deaths so far.

In the country, 24,506  people have been infected by the disease, as per the Ministry of Health data released on Friday.

There are 18668 active cases in the country so far.

So far, 5062 people have recovered.