July 1, 2020: Amid the rising number of coronavirus cases in the financial capital, Mumbai Commissioner of Police Pranaya Ashok today imposed Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) in the city with immediate effect.

The order prohibits any presence or movement of one or more persons in public places or gathering of any sort anywhere, including religious places to prevent the virus spread. Section 144 will be implemented in the areas under the control of commissioner of police, Greater Mumbai.

“There is a likelihood of spread of the COVID-19 virus through gathering of persons in public or private places and there is grave danger to human life, health or safety. There are sufficient reasons for passing prohibitory orders under Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) to ensure that there is no danger to human life," the order said.

All movement of one or more persons in the city is prohibited between 9 pm to 5 am. Only the essential services will be allowed during this time. The prohibitory order will be effective till 15 July 2020, unless withdrawn earlier, Mumbai police said today.

Mumbai is the worst-affected city by coronavirus pandemic in India. The financial capital of India has reported 77,658 coronavirus cases so far. At least, 4,566 people have succumbed to death in the Maximum city. At present, there are 28,924 active COVID-19 patients in the city.