In view of the surging COVID-19 cases in Manipur, the Bishnupur district magistrate has restricted gathering of people for any activity, including election-related activities.

In an order issued on Monday, district Magistrate L Bikram stated that a maximum of 50 persons or half of the capacity, whichever is less, will be allowed in case of closed spaces while a maximum of 200 persons will be allowed in case of open spaces.

No road show, Padayatra, cycle/bike/vehicle/physical rally and procession of political parties or candidates (including probable) or any other group related to election or of any other group/organisation will be allowed till January 22. Political parties should ensure the compliance of Covid Appropriate Behaviour and guidelines and Model Code of Conduct at all occasions during the activities connected with elections, the order read.

Wearing of face masks in public places, gatherings and crowded areas is a critical Covid Appropriate Behaviour and it should be strictly enforced and violators to be penalised promptly under relevant rules, the district magistrate stated.

Moreover, all remaining restrictions as contained in the Revised Broad Guidelines for Conduct of Elections, 2022 of ECI issued on January 8 as well as instructions issued by the state government on Covid-related restriction shall continue to operate, it added.