SHILLONG, MAY 29: There has been no more violation of quarantine protocols by returnees especially those coming from outside the Northeast states, Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong said on Friday. His statement came after the Meghalaya High Court hasrecently asked the state government to caution the returnees about the consequences under law for violation against the quarantine advisories. “Right now, there are no more violators,†Tynsong toldreporters.
He also lauded the returnees for acting responsibly by strictly adhering to the protocols issued by the government and the health department.  “I am happy to inform you that those coming back from different states have not found to have violated the protocols as they are more concern about their family members,†he said.  Earlier this month, over 400 persons including those returned from outside the state have been flagged for alleged violation of COVID-19 quarantine protocol even as the state government had to issue strict warning against such violators.
While hearing a PIL on Wednesday, the bench comprising of Justice HS Thangkhiew and Justice W Diengdoh had stated that one aspect which deserves urgent consideration is the measures to be taken for persons especially the returnees to the state who are in home quarantine, who are to be made aware as to the crucial importance of adhering to the protocols as prescribed.
“It is therefore directed in the interim that the State respondents through the media or public address system shall decimate the necessary information and to caution the public about adhering to the home quarantine advisories and also the consequences of the violation thereof,†the bench had stated in its order.
Meanwhile, the deputy chief minister admitted that it is wrong for people to be totally dependent on the government for everything while reacting to the complaints from people about the food being served at the quarantine centers.  “We need to fight COVID-19 together. We may not come out successfully until unless everybody join this fight,†he added.