Mumbai: With COVID-19 graph seems growing in Maharashtra, state Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray on Tuesday gave a strict warning if people disobey the COVID-19 protocols, they should be prepared for another lockdown.

CM Thackeray has also ordered all departments concerned to ban public processions, meetings and gatherings to avoid mass gathering, besides compulsory wearing of facemasks in public. In his warning to people, he said, “Use face-masks, follow all protocols while in public events, gatherings, weddings, Avoid overcrowding. It is upto you. Otherwise, be prepared for another lockdown.”

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The CM's severe directives came in a high-level review meeting of the infection status in the state in which Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, Health Minister Rajesh Tope, Chief Secretary Sanjay Kumar, all Divisional Commissioners, Collectors, senior police and health officials and members of COVID-19 Task Force were present.

The state chief also asked the administration firmly impose all the SOPs for COVID control with penal measures against those violating the rules. The CM stated that the decrease in number of COVID-19 cases had resulted in laxity among the people and they were not following the protocols but requested the administration not to become lax.

Deputy CM Ajit Pawar, Rajesh Tope and other health officers are dropping hints regularly for extreme warning failing which the state could plunge towards another lockdown. The authorities will also discuss with all business organisations and associations whether the SOPs are being followed and ensure their application.