Karnataka likely to make COVID-19 test compulsory at all tourist spots
The Karnataka government will likely make COVID-19 tests compulsory at all tourist spots. Minister K Sudhakar asserted the government’s plans during a meeting in Kodagu.
FollowKodagu: Karnataka medical education minister K Sudhakar on Tuesday asserted that the state government was contemplating to come out with new guidelines such as compulsory COVID-19 test and physical checking of tourists.
The test and physical checking of tourists will be done using police, health, and revenue department staff at all tourist places.
Speaking to reporters after a high-level meeting of elected representatives and Kodagu district officials, Sudhakar said that the state government was coming out with these new guidelines only to prevent the pandemic spreading from tourists.
Also read: Karnataka: Refusing to get tested for COVID-19 may land you in jail
The minister added that the state government was not in favour of reopening schools or colleges at present even though the central government had issued (Unlock 5.0) instructions for starting schools and colleges in the state.
"As both experts and parents are opposing it since there is an upsurge in infections in our state, hence it is not appropriate to start the classes in our state," Sudhakar said.
Meanwhile, the state government has decided to fine or imprison those who deny getting tested for the virus in.
Citizens who deny the test will have to pay a huge fine of up to Rs 50,000 or will have to serve a jail term of 6 months to 3 years.
