‘Aarogya Setu not a must for air, train travel’

‘Aarogya Setu not a must for air, train travel’

13/06/2020

The Union government on Friday told the Karnataka High Court that using the Aarogya Setu application was only an option and not mandatory for travelling by air and train; instead, travellers could submit a self-declaration form.

The statement was made on behalf of the Centre before a Division Bench of Chief Justice Abhay Shreeniwas Oka and Justice E.S. Indiresh at the hearing of a PIL petition, filed by Anivar A. Aravind, a software engineer working for a non-profit organisation to protect people’s rights in the digital space.

The Centre’s latest guidelines have made the use of Aarogya Setu one of the options to travel by air or train; there is the other option of filling a self -declaration form, Additional Solicitor-General (Karnataka High Court) M.B. Naragund told the Bench.

He said the option to use Aarogya Setu was only advisory and not mandatory, and a passenger not having this application could travel by furnishing the details in the self-declaration form.

Following this, the Bench said it was not necessary to consider the petitioner’s contention that the application was made mandatory for air and train travel.

But it asked the Centre to file its objections to the other contentions — the application is mandatory for accessing any government service, its use has been enforced without the backing of law and it interferes with the right to privacy of users.

Further hearing has been adjourned till July 10.

No weddings, darshan at Guruvayur from today

No weddings, darshan at Guruvayur from today

Increase in COVID-19 cases in Thrissur behind the decision

13/06/2020

After a break of 80 days, Sree Krishna Temple opened on June 5 when the lockdown restrictions were relaxed.PTI

The Guruvayur Devaswom Board has decided to stop darshan as well as weddings at Sree Krishna Temple from Saturday, Kerala Devaswom Minister Kadakampally Surendran has said.

He told reporters here on Friday that the board decided to stop darshan because of the increase in COVID-19 cases in Thrissur district, and the neighbouring Chavakkad turning into a containment zone.

The board would intimate those who had booked for marriages on Sunday and Monday. It had informed the government of its decision, and the government had given its go-ahead. The government was against crowding in all public places, including temples, Mr. Surendran said.

The respective Devaswoms could take a call on permitting darshan, he said.

Mr. Surendran said two weddings, which had already been booked for Saturday, would be conducted. After a break of 80 days, the temple opened on June 5 when the lockdown restrictions were relaxed.

Airport sees increase in number of flights

Airport sees increase in number of flights

13/06/2020

For the first time since the resumption of domestic flights, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) has increased the number of departure and arrival movements within the State.

On Friday, 58 flights were handled at the Chennai airport and for Saturday, the schedule shows there will be 58 flights — 29 arrivals and departures each.

When the Centre announced that domestic flights would resume on May 25, the Tamil Nadu government said only 25 flights would be allowed into the city, considering the huge spike in COVID-19 cases. Hence, for three weeks now, the number of departure and the arrival flights had not crossed 25 each.

Officials of AAI said they received approval from the State government to increase the number of flights.

“The addition of eight aircraft movements is an increase of flights to cities within the State, like Madurai and Thoothukudi. The number of flights from other cities, including Delhi, Hyderabad, Kolkata or Bangalore, has not gone up,” an official said.

42 postgraduates test positive in MMC

42 postgraduates test positive in MMC

All of them are residents of the hostel

13/06/2020

Forty-two doctors, who are residents of the Madras Medical College’s Postgraduate (PG) Men’s Hostel, tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 on Friday.

Nearly 60 samples were lifted from the doctors. Of these, 42 returned positive for novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19). The hostel houses 250 PG doctors. These doctors were posted on COVID-19 as well as other duties, including trauma and outpatient departments, at the Rajiv Gandhi Government General Hospital (RGGGH). Reliable sources at the hospital said that a number of women PGs and house surgeons had tested positive.

“Those who were posted on non-COVID-19 duties have also tested positive. PGs are posted in the trauma wards, including on 24-hour duty. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) are provided but how can they wear it for 24 hours? We have been requesting duty on a shift basis for every six hours. After the government lifted the restrictions, there is an increase in accidents and assault cases. As a result, we have to attend to emergency patients at the earliest,” a doctor at the hospital said.

A majority of the medicos who tested positive were admitted to the ESI Hospital, Ayanavaram. “Many of those who tested positive are asymptomatic. The PG hostel should be closed for disinfection. It is important to actively screen all staff at RGGGH, not just those who are symptomatic. It is important for the safety of healthcare providers and workers, and for patients,” another doctor said on condition of

E-pass issuance restricted in city’s neighbouring districts

E-pass issuance restricted in city’s neighbouring districts

Employees of industries told to find lodging near workplace

13/06/2020

The Tiruvallur district administration has restricted issuance of e-pass to enter the district, even for work.

Many people from Chennai travel to Tiruvallur on a daily basis to work in industries. Till date, police and district administration were allowing those working in different industries if they their work identity cards were presented.

Strict enforcement

“Now we have stopped that and only those with e-passes will be allowed to enter. We are providing passes only to those living near the industries. Those living far away can get a pass and stay near their workplace. Travelling daily will not be encouraged,” Tiruvallur Collector Mageswari Ravikumar said. Meanwhile, the police have intensified checking of e-passes in the districts bordering Chennai. Vehicles from Chennai, without valid pass, are not being allowed to enter Chengalpattu, Kancheepuram or Tiruvallur district.

“The e-pass is mandatory to enter other districts. However, as many people from Chennai travel to Chengalpattu, Kancheepuram and Tiruvallur on a daily basis, it was relaxed a bit. However, we found that many are misusing it and roaming around unnecessarily,” a senior police officer said. There were 15 check points in the border of these districts including one at Thirumazhisai.

“Those without e-pass are being sent back. We will be intensifying the checking in the coming days,” said a senior police officer.

Total lockdown rumours

Tiruvallur SP P. Aravindan said there had been rumours about total lockdown to be announced by the Tamil Nadu government. Since this could lead to panic buying, the police warned people not to spread rumours.

“We will arrest those who spread rumours. The police is closely monitoring social media to identify those who spread fake messages,” he said.

CM: people who spread rumours will face action

CM: people who spread rumours will face action

13/06/2020

Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami on Friday said that false news was being spread about the government planning to intensify lockdown measures to contain the spread of COVID-19, and warned that stern action would be taken against persons spreading such rumours.

Talking to mediapersons after raising the shutters of the Mettur dam, Mr. Palaniswami said, “False news is being spread under my name on social media about the government planning stricter lockdown measures. The government has no such plans. Stern legal action wil be taken against those spreading such rumours. The government has not issued any such order.”

On charges of several private schools collecting fees despite government orders, he said stern action would be taken against such institutions if complaints are made.

‘State reluctant to allow flights from abroad’

‘State reluctant to allow flights from abroad’

13/06/2020

The Madras High Court on Friday asked the Centre why very few chartered flights were being operated to Chennai under the Vande Bharat Mission to repatriate Indians stranded abroad due to COVID-19.

Justices Vineet Kothari and R. Suresh Kumar wondered whether it was for want of sufficient number of passengers or for some other reason. The bench was hearing a petition filed by the DMK to bring back Tamils stranded abroad.

Senior counsel P. Wilson, representing the DMK, told the court that the party had been receiving distress calls and e-mails from thousands of Tamils stranded in the U.S., the U.K., the U.A.E. and many other places. The State government was reluctant to allow flights to land in Chennai, he said.

The judges directed the Centre to file a detailed status report in a week.

The court wanted to know whether the Centre had provided any other relief to Indians stranded abroad due to COVID-19.

The Division Bench directed the State government to submit a list, if any, of international flights already allowed to be landed in Chennai and other airports in the State and the number of requisitions received so far for such flights.

The government was ordered to spell out its stand, by June 19, on allowing international flights to land in Chennai and other airports in the State and whether it had apprehensions on letting passengers land here.

Universities sign pact to work on vaccine

Universities sign pact to work on vaccine

Siddha medicines to be studied as well

13/06/2020

The universities will work to promote excellence in basic and advanced research in healthcare.

The Tamil Nadu Dr. MGR Medical University (TNMGRMU) and the Tamil Nadu University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences (TANUVAS) are working together to identify a vaccine candidate against COVID-19, and are studying the anti-viral activity of select Siddha medicines such as kabasura kudineer.

According to a press release, both institutions have entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to share expertise and facilities to jointly work in various areas of healthcare research.

They are also jointly conducting animal studies and cell line studies to assess the anti-viral activity of Siddha medicines such as kabasura kudineer and nochi kudineer.

The two universities will work towards promoting excellence in basic and advanced research in healthcare, particularly in epidemics and zoonotic diseases. They will also explore other areas to work together, such as in collaborative research projects funded by national and international agencies.

Registrars of the two universities — M.B. Aswath Narayanan of TNMGRMU and P. Tensingh Gnanaraj of TANUVAS — signed the MoU. Vice-chancellor of TNMGRMU Sudha Seshayyan and vice-chancellor of TANUVAS C. Balachandran were present.

No plan for complete lockdown in parts of Chennai, govt. tells HC

No plan for complete lockdown in parts of Chennai, govt. tells HC

‘Issuance of e-passes to city residents has not been stopped’

13/06/2020

The Tamil Nadu government on Friday told the Madras High Court that there was no plan, at present, to enforce a complete lockdown in parts of Chennai.

It also termed as “rumours” messages being circulated on social media about the government having stopped issuance of e-passes to residents of Chennai who wanted to travel to other districts. Appearing before a Division Bench of Justices Vineet Kothari and R. Suresh Kumar, Additional Advocate General S.R. Rajagopal said that decisions on lockdown were being taken by the State government on the basis of recommendations of a technical committee appointed to look into ways and means to contain COVID-19. “As of now, Lockdown 5.0 is on with some relaxations,” he pointed out, stating that although the number of people testing positive for COVID-19 was on the rise in Chennai, the government had been taking steps to quarantine the infected and their family members. Restrictions were imposed on the movement of people from particular buildings and streets.

At this point, Justice Kumar asked if there was any plan to implement a complete lockdown in parts of Chennai and the AAG replied in the negative. “I don’t think there is going to be a 100% lockdown in Chennai… As of now, the government does not have any such plan,” he said.

“There is also some news about the government having stopped issuing e-passes to residents of Chennai city. Is that correct,” the judge asked. Mr. Rajagopal said that these were “rumours”.

SC refuses to hear case on MBBS seat quota; DMK approaches Madras HC

SC refuses to hear case on MBBS seat quota; DMK approaches Madras HC

TNN | Jun 12, 2020, 05.57 AM IST

CHENNAI: Hours after the Supreme Court refused to entertain a batch of pleas moved by all major political parties in TN, besides the Tamil Nadu government, challenging the Centre's decision not to allot 50% of medical seats under All India Quota to OBC students, the DMK moved the Madras high court with a similar plea.

When the batch came up for admission on Thursday, a bench comprising Justices L Nageswara Rao, Krishna Murari and S Ravindra Bhat permitted petitioners to withdraw the pleas, giving them the liberty to approach the HC first. Among the petitioners are the DMK, AIADMK, Congress, PMK, CPI and CPI(M).

"All India quota seats are contributed by states surrendering seats in government and private medical and dental colleges as per the MCI regulations," DMK counsel and senior advocate P Wilson said.

The issue pertains to the Centre's decision not to allot 50% of seats medical courses to OBC students, from seats surrendered by the Tamil Nadu government to All India Quota (AIQ). Citing loss of OBC quota seats in undergraduate, postgraduate medical and dental courses for the academic year 2020-21, the cases had been instituted. While Medical Council of India (MCI) regulations clearly contemplate adherence to state reservation laws while filling the seats, the Centre refused to follow the state law pertaining to OBC reservation in the AIQ, the petitioner said.

The DMK added that providing professional education for the marginalised will benefit talented students who could not secure competitive marks due to their economic and social circumstances.

The party wanted the court to call for the records pertaining to the result of NEET-PG 2020 published on May 9 by the National Board of Examinations for filling up seats under the all India quota and quash the same as unconstitutional.

The AIADMK said there was no rational basis for not extending the benefits of 50% quota for OBCs to the 'state-captured 'seats in the AIQ. OBCs have been grossly under-represented in AIQ seats in undergraduate, diploma, postgraduate diploma and postgraduate medical colleges across the country, it said.

When And How To Discharge COVID-19 Patients: Check Our Health Ministry's Revised Discharge Policy

When And How To Discharge COVID-19 Patients: Check Our Health Ministry's Revised Discharge Policy 

By Medical Dialogues Bureau 

Published On 13 Jun 2020 8:50 AM | Updated On 13 Jun 2020 8:50 AM 

New Delhi - For sake of clarity of medical institutions dealing on coronavirus cases, the Union Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India has issued a "Revised Discharge Policy for COVID-19' for better management of COVID-19 pandemic. All MSs/MDs/Directors of all hospitals of Delhi including hospitals under Government of Delhi, Government of India, Private Sector, Urban Local Bodies an Army etc have directed to adopt 'Revised Discharge Policy for COVID-19' issued by Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India (copy enclosed) with immediate effect. 

Revised Discharge Policy for COVID-19 The revised discharge policy is aligned with the guidelines on the 3 tier COVID facilities and the categorization of the patients based on clinical severity 

1. Mild/very mild/pre-symptomatic cases 

Mild/very mild/pre-symptomatic cases admitted to a COVID Care Facility will undergo regular temperature and pulse oximetry monitoring. The patient can be discharged after 10 days of symptom onset and no fever for 3 days. There will be no need for testing prior to discharge. 

At the time of discharge, the patient will be advised to isolate himself at home and self-monitor their health for further 7 days. At any point of time, prior to discharge from CCC, if the oxygen saturation dips below 95%, patient is moved to Dedicated COVID Health Centre (DCHC). 

After discharge from the facility, if he/she again develops symptoms of fever, cough or breathing difficulty he will contact the COVID Care Centre or State helpline or 1075. His/her health will again be followed up through tele-conference on 14th day. 

2. Moderate cases admitted to Dedicated COVID Health Centre (Oxygen beds) 

2.1.Patients whose symptoms resolve within 3 days and maintains saturation above 95% for the next 4 days Cases clinically classified as "moderate cases" will undergo monitoring of body temperature and oxygen saturation. 

If the fever resolve within 3 days and the patient maintains saturation above 95% for the next 4 days (without oxygen support), such patient will be discharged after IO days of symptom onset in case of: 

3. • Absence of fever without antipyretics 

• Resolution of breathlessness 

• No oxygen requirement There will be no need for testing prior to discharge. At the time of discharge, the patient will be advised to isolate himself at home and self-monitor their health for further 7 days. 2.2. Patient on Oxygenation whose fever does not resolve within 3 days and demand of oxygen therapy continues. Such patients will be discharged only after 

• resolution of clinical symptoms 

• ability to maintain oxygen saturation for 3 consecutive days 3. Severe Cases including immunocompromised (HIV patients, transplant recipients, malignancy) Discharge criteria for severe cases will be based on • Clinical recovery • Patient tested negative once by RT-PCR (after resolution of symptoms)

https://medicaldialogues.in/news/health/government-policies/when-and-how-to-discharge-covid-19-patients-check-our-health-ministrys-revised-discharge-policy-66657

J Radhakrishnan replaces Beela Rajesh as TN's health secretary amid surge in COVID-19 cases

J Radhakrishnan replaces Beela Rajesh as TN's health secretary amid surge in COVID-19 cases

The transfer of the top health official comes in the backdrop of the state recording over 1,500 cases in the last week. Radhakrishnan was the Health Secretary for seven years until February 2019.

Published: 12th June 2020 11:59 AM 

By Express News Service

CHENNAI: With COVID-19 cases surging by the day in Tamil Nadu, the state government on Friday appointed Commissioner of Revenue Administration J Radhakrishnan as Health Secretary, shunting out Beela Rajesh who was transferred and posted as Secretary, Commercial Taxes and Registration Department.

A government order dated 12 June, issued by the Chief Secretary Shanmugam, said Radhakrishnan will also hold full additional charge as Commissioner of Revenue Administration until further orders.

Dr. J. Radhakrishnan reappointed as #TamilNadu Health Secretary. 

Dr. Beela Rajesh who held the post previously transferred as Secretary to Commercial Taxes & Registration dept.

Radhakrishnan served as Health Secretary for over seven years before he was transferred and posted as Transport Secretary. After a brief stint, he was transferred and posted as Revenue Administration Commissioner. On May 1, he was appointed as special nodal officer for the Chennai Corporation to fight COVID-19.

Radhakrishnan is well known for his relief work after the 2004 tsunami when he was the district collector of Nagapattinam, one of the badly-hit districts. His efficiency in handling the crisis after the tsunami gained considerable appreciation. His administrative skills were lauded by former US President Bill Clinton and the Sri Lankan government utilized his experience in relief work at the time.

The transfer of the top health official comes in the backdrop of the state recording over 1,500 cases in the last one week. Radhakrishnan, a 1992 batch IAS officer, also served as Chennai Corporation Commissioner. A veterinary doctor (MVSc), he was the Health Secretary from September 2012 till February 2019 when Beela Rajesh had succeeded him.

Radhakrishnan was known for handling many crises when he was health secretary.

Vehicle checks intensified on Chennai-Chengalpattu border, valid e-passes mandatory

Vehicle checks intensified on Chennai-Chengalpattu border, valid e-passes mandatory

A police officer said that many people who reached the border claimed they wanted to get out of Chennai as they believed an intensified lockdown was about to come into place

Published: 12th June 2020 02:51 PM |

Chengalpattu district police conduct vehicle checks at Vandalur on Friday. (Photo | Express)

By Express News Service

CHENNAI: Even as the state government ruled out a fresh phase of lockdown in Chennai, the police personnel of bordering districts have intensified vehicle checks and only people with valid e-passes are allowed to enter Kancheepuram, Chengalpattu and Tiruvallur

According to a senior police officer from Chengalpattu, the police are following the already existing rule of only allowing vehicles with e-passes.

"For the last few weeks, thousands of vehicles have been entering and crossing Chengalpattu through GST Road. Since COVID-19 cases in Chengalpattu district have increased manyfold in the past few days, we

started to allow only vehicles with passes and others were sent back," said the senior police officer.

The last time the Chengalpattu border at Vandalur had severe checking was during May first week.

Senior police officers from all three districts have confirmed that many people who reached the border claimed they wanted to get out of Chennai as they believed an intensified lockdown was about to come

into place.

"Many people had believed the rumor and we had to explain to them that the Chief Minister has denied it and that there will be no lockdown now," said a senior police officer from Tiruvallur.

Chengalpattu superintendent of police Kannan told The New Indian Express that this checking will continue for the next few days until COVID-19 cases in Chengalpattu district come down. "We have sent back at least 8000 vehicles since morning and in some cases we had to calm the motorists who get angry because of the vehicle checking," he said.

Similarly in Kancheepuram, the police have barricaded the city borders and intensified the vehicle checkings.

Superintendent of Police D Samundeeswari said told Express, "Owing to the weekend and the rumour of lockdown in Chennai many people wanted to reach Kanchipuram or cross the district. Hundreds of people who are working in Chennai from Kanchipuram told us they had to go and come everyday and that they cannot get e-pass. We have asked them to contact the Collectorate for further details,"

70 PG doctors test positive at RGGGH, lab technician dies

70 PG doctors test positive at RGGGH, lab technician dies

The 53-year-old technician, a known diabetic, was shifted out of lab duty on paper but continued to handle Covid samples, allege sources; GH becomes hot spot

Published: 13th June 2020 05:32 AM 

COVID-19 blood test sample.

By Sinduja Jane

Express News Service

CHENNAI: A day after the government made it mandatory for all people visiting Covid testing centres to quarantine themselves for 14 days, it’s evident that the Rajiv Gandhi Government General Hospital -- one the primary centres in the State for Covid treatment -- continues to be a hotspot. In the last 24 hours, a total of 70 PG doctors at the Madras Medical College, attached to the hospital have tested positive.

Many of these doctors are now admitted to the ESI Hospital in Ayanavaram, where a separate block has been allotted to doctors who test positive. “On Thursday we received seven post graduate doctors from Madras Medical College and on Friday alone 50 doctors came. Condition of all doctors is stable,” said a senior doctor at the ESI Ayanavaram Hospital.

Meanwhile, RGGGH dean R Jayanthi attributed the detection of the cases to more testing, rather than talking about the source of infection. “Only at Madras Medical College we periodically screen our healthcare professionals. We have done more than 3,000 tests so far. I doubt if anywhere else they have done this numbers. It is in the best interest of the professionals. We are being honest and transparent about it,” she said.

It may be noted in the last week of April the men’s hostel of PG doctors at the Madras Medical College was shut down after a sweeper there tested positive. After that among 105 PG doctors screened two were found to be positive. Meanwhile, sources said, over 100 doctors including head of departments and PG doctors tested positive in the last one week. In another major development a 53 year old lab technician at the hospital contracted COVID-19 and died at the same hospital on Thursday. 

Dheenadayalan, the deceased was posted at a Covid sample processing biochemistry lab. “He was working at 24 toxicology lab before that,” sources said. “Recently, he had his leg amputated because of diabetes. Though officially he was placed on non-COVID-19 duty, he was made to continue in the positive sample processing lab only. He was posted at the reception,” said one of the hospital staffs. When asked about this Dean Jayanthi said,”Dheenadayalan was exempted from Covid work because of his health condition. He was on leave before he got admitted in serious condition.” Meanwhile duty schedule record of this month accessed by Express showed that Dheenadayalan was assigned for duty. “He was admitted to the hospital on 8 June. Tested positive on 9 June and died on Thursday,” a staff said.

Cases climb in Chennai

The city has recorded 1,479 cases on Friday, taking its tally to a massive 28,924. Chennai’s neighbouring districts also continued to record significant number of cases. Chengalpattu recorded 128 cases, Kancheepuram 26, and Tiruvallur 92 cases. Among the 18, one died without any co-morbidity. A 38 year old man from Chennai admitted at a private hospital with complaints of fever, cough for three days and difficulty in breathing for two days. He was admitted on 30 May and died on 11 June due to respiratory failure, septic shock with multi organ dysfunction syndrome. Among the deceased 15 were from Chennai, two persons from Chengalpattu and one from Tiruvallur.

Meanwhile, containment zones in the city have risen from just 200 a few weeks ago to 360. Of this, 73 are in Kodambakkam, 76 in Royapuram, and 54 in Tiru Vi Ka Nagar. Health Secretary Dr J Radhakrishnan said that strict measures are being imposed including herd masking, and urged people to follow the non-medical preventive measures such as washing hands. He also said that the 14-day home quarantine rule for those who are taking RT-PCR test was done with good intention.

Thinking of flouting home quarantine? Beware!

Thinking of flouting home quarantine? Beware!

The duo contracted the infection from the son of one of the women, who travelled back to town from Chenani to collect his exam hall ticket.

Published: 13th June 2020 05:32 AM |

By Express News Service

COIMBATORE: The health department is likely to issue a notice against two Chennai returnees for violating home quarantine norms. While a 54-year-old resident of Velandipalayam hid details of his travel to Chennai, a 27-year-old who returned from the capital city managed to give the mandatory testing a miss. While the apartment complex of the former has been locked down, two contacts of latter have tested positive. 

The youth from Vadavalli, who is currently treatment for Covid in ESI Hospital, had informed health officials that he went to Coimbatore Medical College Hospital (CMCH) on his arrival from Chennai on Monday by road. However, health department sources said that he was staying in his farmhouse in Vadavalli for almost a week. During the stay he had contact with two women, who have now tested positive. Official sources notices would be served to both of them under the Epidemic Diseases Act.

3 test +ve over hall ticket?

Though the Board Exams were cancelled saving millions of students from the risk of infection, the travel and congregation for the collection of exam hall tickets seem to have affected a few. On Thursday, two women who tested positive for Covid were booked by the Tirunelveli police for refusing to cooperate with the treatment protocols. The duo contracted the infection from the son of one of the women, who travelled back to town from Chenani to collect his exam hall ticket.

Upon his arrival from Chennai, the boy came down with fever. He gave samples at the Agasthiyarpatti Primary Health Centre and tested positive. Through contact tracing, his mother and cousin were also found to be positive. While the boy was transferred to the Tirunelveli GH, the mother and cousin refused to cooperate when asked to move to a hospital. They were later convinced and taken to the same hospital. They have also been booked.

30 COVID-19 patients discharged after Siddha treatment in Chennai

30 COVID-19 patients discharged after Siddha treatment in Chennai

“We will surely expand the use of Indian medicine in the coming days. This system has shown results in Kerala too,’’ Health Secretary Dr Radhakrishnan said.

Published: 12th June 2020 08:04 PM | Last Updated: 12th June 2020 08:04 PM | A+A A-

Thirty COVID-19 patients in Chennai have been discharged so far after being treated by Siddha medicine at the Jawahar College Campus.

By Omjasvin MD

Express News Service

CHENNAI: Thirty COVID-19 patients in Chennai have been discharged so far after being treated by Siddha medicine at the Jawahar College Campus.

“Out of the 30, six people took an exit test and were found to be negative. The rest were all stable,’’ Health Secretary Dr J Radhakrishnan told The New Indian Express.

He said they normally do not carry out exit tests for stable patients but these were done to highlight the efficacy of the Siddha treatment.

Currently, about 100 patients are still getting treated by Siddha in the city while other medicine systems like Ayurveda, homeopathy and naturopathy are also being experimented on patients across government hospitals and COVID care centres.

On May 29, the state government held a feasibility meeting on exploring the Indian system of medicine for treatment of COVID-19. Eight representatives from various systems participated and presented the treatment modalities which could reduce the viral load in patients.

In the meeting, State Development Policy Council (SDPC) Vice Chairman C Ponnaiyan suggested that the doctors go ahead with promoting the efficacy of the system and provide well documented clinical trials to establish it, according to sources.

Dr N Manavalan, Principal, Government Yoga and Naturopathic Medical College and Hospital, who was also the member of the panel, told Express that trials were going on at Stanley and Omandurar hospitals and the COVID care centres at Loyola and DG Vaishnav Colleges.

"Naturopathy treatment acts as a primary prevention method, helping in reducing the multiplication of the viral load. This method gives importance to the throat and nasal part of the body," he said.

Dr Manavala added that in COVID care centres, patients are taught yoga and pranayama and are made to do salt water gargling and steam inhalation. "Most of the patients are stable and are being continuously monitored," he said.

As of June 10, a total of 3146 COVID positive patients have been getting yoga and naturopathy treatment.

“We will surely expand the use of Indian medicine in the coming days. This system has shown results in Kerala too,’’ Dr Radhakrishnan said. He added that this system could work hand-in-hand with the allopathy treatment.

Panel members told Express that soon, outcomes of Indian medicine treatment for COVID patients will be published as a documented paper and presented to the government.

No e-pass, no entry to Chennai; police seal borders shut

No e-pass, no entry to Chennai; police seal borders shut

Chengalpattu SP Kannan told Express that checking will continue for the next few days until COVID-19 cases in the district comes down.

Published: 13th June 2020 06:37 AM | Last Updated: 13th June 2020 06:37 AM 

MKN road in Alandur and neighboring streets have been shut down for a week after it was found to be a Covid hotspot | Ashwin Prasath

By Express News Service

CHENNAI: Even as the government ruled out a fresh phase of lockdown in Chennai, police personnel of bordering districts have intensified vehicle checks and only people with valid e-passes are allowed to enter Kancheepuram, Chengalpattu and Tiruvallur. Chengalpattu SP Kannan told Express that checking will continue for the next few days until COVID-19 cases in the district comes down.

“We have sent back at least 8,000 vehicles since morning,” he said. Kancheepuram SP D Samundeeswari said, “Owing to the weekend and the rumoured lockdown, many people wanted to reach Kancheepuram or cross the district. People who are working in Chennai said they had to come everyday and that they cannot get e-pass. We have asked them to contact the Collectorate for details.”

Social justice is not a concession: TN parties react to SC ruling on quota for OBCs in medical colleges

Social justice is not a concession: TN parties react to SC ruling on quota for OBCs in medical colleges

Stating that the petitioners just highlighted the discrimination shown between EWS and the OBCs in this regard, Ravikumar said the VCK would continue its legal battle in this regard.

Published: 12th June 2020 11:25 AM | Last Updated: 12th June 2020 11:25 AM 

For representational purposes

By Express News Service

CHENNAI: Political parties in Tamil Nadu have expressed their disappointment over the Supreme Court’s ruling that right to reservation is not a fundamental right while rejecting pleas challenging the Centre’s decision not to grant 50 percent reservation to OBCs in Tamil Nadu medical colleges.

K Thirunavukkarasu, historian of Dravidian Movement said: “It is unfortunate that the SC has shirked its responsibility to give a clear cut answer to the issue. They just passed the responsibility to the State courts. Social justice is not a concession. It is a birthright of the backward and oppressed classes.”

Thirunavukkarasu said reservation enables each community to progress ahead through education.

Reservation is there to give social status for the oppressed and backward classes and it helps ensure equality. 

As far as Tamil Nadu is concerned, social justice issue was raised in the early 20th century. 1921, Communal G.O was issued.

VCK general secretary D Ravikumar pointed out that the question put forth before the SC was not whether reservation is a fundamental right or not.

It is about the legality of providing reservation to the OBCs. The Centre has given reservation to the Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) while the same has been denied to OBCs. So, naturally, the question arises whether reservation is a fundamental right for EWS. 

Stating that the petitioners just highlighted the discrimination shown between EWS and the OBCs in this regard, Ravikumar said the VCK would continue its legal battle in this regard.

CPI state secretary R Muththarasan told Express: “The Supreme Court’s decision on these petitions is surprising.

The first amendment in the constitution took place to protect the reservation in Tamil Nadu. Reservation is being given to the underprivileged in the society.

Hence, it is the rights of those who were denied the opportunity for education and job opportunities for generations. We will fight for social justice till the end.”

CPM state secretary K Balakrishnan said: “We did not seek clarification from SC whether reservation is a fundamental right. Already reservation has got constitutional protection. Hence, we sought the direction from the SC to provide reservation to OBCs as per the Constitution. We will explore legal options to carry forward the case till getting the SC’s nod for reservation to OBCs”.

Why not lock Chennai down once again, Madras HC asks TN govt

Why not lock Chennai down once again, Madras HC asks TN govt

Being a policy decision, officials said a call has to be taken by CM Edappadi K Palaniswami and epidemiologists.

Published: 12th June 2020 02:57 AM | Last Updated: 12th June 2020 02:57 AM 

Poonamallee Municipality staff spraying bleaching powder to prevent coronavirus on Monday in Chennai. (Photo | P Jawahar/EPS)

By Express News Service

CHENNAI: Amid rumours of Chennai heading towards another lockdown doing the rounds on social media, the Madras High Court on Thursday asked the government pleader why a complete lockdown can’t be implemented in the city to control the continuing rise in the number of cases.

Though messages on various social media fora claimed that the State was merely waiting for Class X and Class XI exams to end to announce a complete lockdown, officials dismissed them as mere rumours.

“Despite the steps taken by the government, the number of cases is steeply rising every day in the city and its outskirts making the situation alarming,” a bench comprising justices Vineet Kothari and R Suresh Kumar said during virtual court proceedings after concluding listed cases.

“This is not a suo motu proceeding and the court has not initiated any PIL petition either. We, as citizens of Tamil Nadu and residents of Chennai, and in the interest of the general public raise this question,” the bench said.

It also wanted to know whether the government had devised any special scheme, including a complete lockdown, to contain the spread of infection in Chennai and the surrounding areas for some time.

However, government pleader Jayaprakash Narayan said he had not received any such instruction and would inform the court if there is any fresh information on Friday.Being a policy decision, officials said a call has to be taken by CM Edappadi K Palaniswami and epidemiologists.

While health sources maintain that a lockdown is to build up the capacity to combat the spread, it can’t help in containing the disease. Interestingly, no medical expert has come out with any evidence stating that a lockdown will contain it. Virologist T Jacob John said a lockdown is not required if the government enforces 100 per cent wearing of masks.

“I am saying it based on an evidence-based study put forth in a recent publication by a UK journal. I suggest wearing masks even at home, if elderly live there,” he said. Meanwhile, Tamil Nadu Vanigar Sangankalain Peramaippu on Thursday declared that the members of the forum are ready to shut their establishments in Chennai for 15 days if the government wants it.

EPS names two-tier flyover in Salem after Jayalalithaa

EPS names two-tier flyover in Salem after Jayalalithaa

Chief Minister also lays foundation for Rs 286.14-cr worth works, says more coming up

Published: 12th June 2020 06:04 AM | Last Updated: 12th June 2020 06:04 AM 

Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami at the inauguration of the two-tier flyover at Kuranguchavadi in Salem, the longest of its type in Tamil Nadu; He also inaugurated various completed projects

By Express News Service

SALEM: Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami on Thursday named the newly-inaugurated two-tier flyover at Kuranguchavadi in Salem, the longest of its type in Tamil Nadu, after 'Puratchi Thalaivi' J Jayalalithaa. After inaugurating another flyover constructed between Shevapet and Leigh Bazaar, Palaniswami laid the foundation for Rs 286.14-crore worth works, and inaugurated various projects completed at a cost of Rs 26.22 crore.

Referring to the two-tier flyover inauguration a 'historic' event, the CM told media persons that the dream of Salem residents has come true. "During my tenure as the Minister of Highways Department in 2011, I had requested former Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa to allow construction of this flyover to decongest traffic. A similar request was also made for a flyover each at A V R Roundana, Shevapet-Leigh Bazaar stretch, Manalmedu and Mulluvadi Gate. Considering the needs, she sanctioned funds for constructing flyovers in all these locations.

Already, the flyovers at A V R Roundana, Thiruvagoundanur and Steel Plant Junction have been thrown open. While the one at A V R Roundana was named after 'Puratchi Thalaivar' M G Ramachandran, the two-tier flyover is given the name of former Chief Minister 'Puratchi Thalaivi' J Jayalalithaa," he explained.

More on the cards

About projects in the pipeline, the CM said, "The flyover construction at Kandampatti bypass is nearing completion. Those at Ariyanoor and Magudanchavadi along the Salem-Coimbatore National Highway are under construction. On Thrusday, foundation stone was laid for two flyovers — one near JSW Industry and another at Muthunaickenpatti.

Steps are being taken to build new flyovers at Vazhapadi and Ayothiyapattinam. Besides, the first phase of service road-laying works has been initiated at Seelanaickenpatti."Palaniswami informed that the Centre has granted permission for the construction of a flyover at Mamangam on the Salem-Bengaluru NH. "Soon, we are expecting their nod for another flyover at Selliyampalayam junction near Attur on Salem-Chennai NH," he added.

DMK moves HC after SC observes reservation is not fundamental right

DMK moves HC after SC observes reservation is not fundamental right

Accordingly, DMK press relations officer TKS Elangovan filed a writ petition on Thursday.

Published: 12th June 2020 06:04 AM | Last Updated: 12th June 2020 06:04 AM |

Madras High Court (File photo| EPS)

By Express News Service

CHENNAI: Acting on the liberty made known by the Supreme Court to the political parties of Tamil Nadu on Thursday, the DMK filed a writ petition before Madras High Court, seeking 50 per cent reservation for OBC in the matter of admission of students belonging to the OBC community in medical and dental courses under the State-surrendered seats in All India Quota. After observing that reservation is not a fundamental right, a bench of the apex court, directed the parties to approach the Madras HC with its plea.

Accordingly, DMK press relations officer TKS Elangovan filed a writ petition on Thursday.Meanwhile, General Secretary of Doctors’ Association for Social Equality (DASE) GR Ravindranath opposed the apex court’s refusal to grant 50 per cent reservation for OBCs in medical colleges, stating that 27 per cent of reservations should initially be implemented, adding the 27 per cent of all India quota should have been implemented in 2008 itself.

K Veeramani, president of DK, said Supreme Court’s observation was only an interpretation. On interpretations to the constitutional provisions, Veeramani pointed to an excerpt in the report of Havanur, who headed the Karnataka Backward Classes Commission. “Havanur said that language of the Constitution insofar as it relates to backward classes, is simple and unambiguous. But the language of the Judiciary in interpreting the Constitutional provisions is highly ambiguous and complicated.”

G Karunanidhy, general secretary of the All India OBC Federation said, “Reservation is indeed a constitutional right which was guaranteed under various provisions. In fact, those provisions were earlier upheld by the apex court on various occasions.”

K Thirunavukkarasu, historian of Dravidian Movement said, “It is unfortunate that the SC has shirked its responsibility to give a clear cut answer. They just passed the responsibility to the State courts. Social justice is not a concession. It is a birthright of the backward and oppressed classes.”

VCK general secretary D Ravikumar pointed out that the question put forth was not whether reservation is a fundamental right or not. It is about the legality of providing reservation to the OBCs. The Centre has given reservation to the Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) while the same has been denied to OBCs. So, naturally, the question arises whether reservation is a fundamental right for EWS.

CPI state secretary R Muththarasan and CPM state secretary K Balakrishnan expressed shock over the SC and echoed similar view as the aforementioned leaders.

Tamil Nadu institutions slip in ranking

Tamil Nadu institutions slip in ranking

Nothing to cheer despite 18 varsities, colleges from TN finding a spot in NIRF report card

Published: 12th June 2020 06:04 AM | Last Updated: 12th June 2020 06:04 AM 

Anna University 

By Sushmitha Ramakrishnan

Express News Service

CHENNAI: Eighteen colleges and universities from Tamil Nadu are featured among the top-100 higher education institutions in the country, as per the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) released by the Ministry of Human Resources Development on Thursday. The IIT-Madras tops the list.

The ranking did not bring cheer for many institutions in the State. The famous Anna University, for instance, slipped from rank-14 in the overall category to 20. It is still ranked 12 among universities in the country, and 14 among engineering institutions. The University of Madras, again, slumped from rank-33 to as low as 41.

The Madras University scored almost the same in all categories except Peer Perception — which is calculated based on a survey conducted among employers, professionals, and academics. Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Coimbatore, has secured rank-13 in the overall category and fourth in the universities category. 

For the first time the Madras Medical College has figured among the top medical colleges and is ranked at 12. Christian Medical College in Vellore has been ranked third in the country. Among the top 10 colleges are Presidency College, Loyola College and PSGR Krishnammal College for Women. The Presidency College’s ranking has, however, fallen from the third to the fifth position this year.

Madras Christian College has secured the 17th rank. Ethiraj College for Women has slid by 10 positions this year — rank 46 compared to rank 36 in 2019. A total of 32 colleges from the State have been listed in the top 100 colleges list. While 20 colleges have been ranked under the category of Law, no institute from Tamil Nadu is on it.

Reservation not a fundamental right: SC dismisses pleas seeking implementation of OBC quota in Tamil Nadu medical courses

Reservation not a fundamental right: SC dismisses pleas seeking implementation of OBC quota in Tamil Nadu medical courses

In a ruling in February, the SC had held there is no fundamental right to claim reservation in public jobs and no court can order a state to provide for reservation to SC/STs.

Published: 12th June 2020 10:00 AM | Last Updated: 12th June 2020 10:00 AM 

For representational purposes

By Express News Service

NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Thursday said reservation is not a fundamental right as it refused to admit a batch of petitions seeking the implementation of 50% reservation for other backward classes (OBCs) for state-surrendered seats in the all-India quota for undergraduate and postgraduate medical courses in Tamil Nadu.

“We appreciate the concern of all the political parties for the welfare of backward classes. But reservation is not a fundamental right,” a three-judge bench led by Justice L Nageswara Rao told the lawyers appearing for various parties including the AIADMK, DMK, Tamil Nadu Congress Committee, CPI and CPI(M).All withdrew their petitions with a liberty to approach the Madras High Court.

In a ruling in February, the SC had held there is no fundamental right to claim reservation in public jobs and no court can order a state to provide for reservation to SC/STs.

The petitions were filed by the CPI, DMK and some of its leaders asking for 50% OBC reservation in seats surrendered by Tamil Nadu in the All India quota for under graduate, post graduate medical and dental courses in 2020-21.

They said that in Tamil Nadu, there is 69% reservation for OBCs, SC and ST and within this, OBC reservations are about 50%.The petitions said 50% of OBC candidates must get admissions in the medical colleges out of seats surrendered under the all India quota, except for central government institutions.

“Denial of admissions to OBC candidates is a violation of their fundamental right,” stated the pleas, asking for a stay on the counselling under NEET till the reservation is given.

The bench observed verbally that no case was made out for the petitioners to approach the top court directly under Article 32 — a remedy available under the Indian Constitution if there is violation of a fundamental right.

“Whose fundamental rights are being violated? Article 32 is available only for violation of fundamental rights. We assume you are all interested in fundamental rights of the citizens of Tamil Nadu. But right to reservation is not a fundamental right,” observed the bench.

J Radhakrishan replaces Beela Rajesh as TN's health secretary amid surge in COVID-19 cases

J Radhakrishan replaces Beela Rajesh as TN's health secretary amid surge in COVID-19 cases

J Radhakrishan served as Principal Health and Family Welfare secretary for over seven years before transferred and posted as Revenue Administration Commissioner. 

Published: 12th June 2020 11:59 AM | Last Updated: 12th June 2020 12:06 PM 

Tamil Nadu's new Health secretary J Radhakrishnan (Photo | Twitter)

By Express News Service

CHENNAI: As COVID-19 cases in the State are spiking day by day, State Government transferred health secretary Beela Rajesh and posted J Radhakrishan, Revenue Administration Commissioner as new Health Secretary on Friday.

In its Government Order (GO) dated 12 June the Government said, Beela Rajesh, principal secretary Health and Family Welfare Department transferred and posted as Secretary to commerical taxes and Registration department vice Muruganandam, IAS. 

J Radhakrishan, Revenue Administration Commissioner transferred and posted a principal secretary health and family welfare. He will also hold full additional charge as Revenue Administration Commissioner. 

It may be noted J Radhakrishan served as Principal Health and Family Welfare secretary for over seven years before transferred and posted as Revenue Administration Commissioner.

Plea In Madras HC To Enforce Strict Lockdown Measures In Chennai [Read Petition]

Plea In Madras HC To Enforce Strict Lockdown Measures In Chennai [Read Petition] 

LIVELAW NEWS NETWORK

11 Jun 2020 1:26 PM 

Aggrieved by a sudden spike of reported Covid cases in the city, practicing Advocate N. Tamilarasu has moved the Madras High Court seeking implementation of an absolute lockdown within the limits of the Greater Chennai Police. 

The writ petition filed through Advocates S. John, J. Raja Singh and V. Vasanthakumar, seeks forthwith withdrawal of all the relaxations related to the COVID-19 lockdown, and urges that the administration be directed to permit movement for only essential services, until the situation is brought under control. 

Relying on certain media reports, the Petitioner pointed out that when the lockdown was announced, there were only 26 cases in Tamil Nadu however, as on date there are over 20,000 confirmed Covid cases in Chennai alone. 

"Even though in many parts of the Tamilnadu the spread and intensity of COVID-19 pandemic has been under control, but in the capital city within the jurisdiction of Greater Chennai Police the intensity of the pandemic is very high and is increasing day by day based on the Tamilnadu Government's Media Bulletin reports," the Petitioner asserted. 

Citing another news report the Petitioner submitted that the state was likely to witness over 1 lakh Covid positive cases in the following months and hence, urged that implementation of lockdown is necessary to curb the spread of the deadly virus. 

"If no strict lockdown is enforced in the jurisdiction of Greater Chennai Police and further relaxations are executed there shall be an irreversible damage done to the health and life of the general public within jurisdiction of Greater Chennai Police," the Petitioner urged before the Court. 

The Petitioner has thus sought strict enforcement of lockdown in the city while stating, "without strict lockdown across Chennai it is very difficult to maintain social distancing and this puts the life of the every family member of the person(including the aged and children) at huge risk." 

The plea avers that that the State Government has failed to implement the objectives of the Disaster Management Act, 2005 in letter and spirit. 

"The State of Tamilnadu ought to have implemented the objectives of the Disaster Management Act, 2005 scientifically by balancing the economy and also not exposing the general public to danger of COVID - 19. But the situation of COVID — 19 in the jurisdiction of Greater Chennai Police has been more swayed towards the economic activities and not Protection of Life of the general public," he has asserted. 

Considering the gravity and urgency of the matter thus, the Petitioner has contended that it may not be the right decision to relax the lockdown in the jurisdiction of Greater Chennai Police.

HC approached for NEET centre in Gulf nations

HC approached for NEET centre in Gulf nations

11/06/2020

A writ petition was filed on Wednesday in the Kerala High Court seeking a directive to the Centre and the National Testing Agency to allot centres for National Eligibility Cum Entrance Test (NEET) in Qatar and other Gulf countries.

The petition was filed by Abdul Azeez, general secretary, Kerala Muslim Cultural Centre, Qatar. According to the petitioner, the entrance test was scheduled on July 26.

The number of expatriates who returned to Kerala, especially from the Gulf countries, was very few.

The children of those staying back in these countries who had applied for the examination would be severely impacted in the absence of exam centres in the Gulf countries.

Name does matter for 1,018 areas

Name does matter for 1,018 areas

Coimbatore - should be called “Koyampuththoor”

11/06/2020

When it comes to names of over 1,000 cities, towns and localities in the State, one cannot any longer ask “what’s in a name?"

As many as 1,018 places have been provided with a new name or rather a new spelling. Here are some of the examples: One of the important industrial cities in the south - Coimbatore - should be called “Koyampuththoor.” Ambattur, known for housing a large industrial estate in the State, has been rechristened as “Ambaththoor.” A major Tier-II city in the northern belt of the State – Vellore – is to be known as “Veeloor.” “Vepery,” an old locality of Chennai, will have to be called “Vepperi.”

N. Panchampatti, a place in Dindigul district, has been renamed as “Ni. Panchampatti.” Of course, Dindigul should be called hereafter “Thindukkal.”

These are highlights of a Government Order issued by the Tamil Development and Information department in April, which is out in the public domain only recently. The issue of the order follows an announcement in the Assembly two years ago that anglicised names of the areas be changed closer to their original names in Tamil. Apart from District Collectors, a high-level committee headed by Minister for Tamil Official Language and Culture, K. Pandiarajan, went into the matter.

For each of the 1,018 places, the order mentions the name in Tamil, the existing English name, the one suggested by the Collector concerned and the recommendation of the committee. Hereafter, it is for the departments of Revenue & Disaster Management, Municipal Administration & Water Supply, and Rural Development & Panchayat Raj to carry out the order.

Doctor at PHC takes distancing rule a little too far — literally

Doctor at PHC takes distancing rule a little too far — literally

Clip shows him examining boy standing over 2 m away

11/06/2020

A video grab shows the patient separated by a ramp from the doctor.

Special Arrangement

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, doctors and healthcare professionals have been known to take various precautions while checking the vitals of patients visiting them.

But one doctor attached to a primary health centre (PHC) in Kandamangalam, Villupuram district, took the distancing dictum too far — literally.

A video clip of the incident that took place in Kandamangalam went viral on Tuesday.

In the minute-long clip, the doctor, Prakash, is seen using a torch to screen a boy standing at a distance of over 2 m from him.

The boy had visited the PHC with a complaint of sore throat.

The duo are separated by a ramp. Poonjolai, a multi-purpose health worker, is seen asking the boy if he is experiencing pain in his throat.

The doctor then prescribes medicines on a small piece of paper and hands it over to Poonjolai, who in turn gives it to the boy. The health worker is then seen asking the boy to collect medicines from a counter on the premises.

Explanation sought

A senior official in the Health Department said that the doctor’s act of formally using a torchlight to screen the patient from a considerable distance was wrong.

The Department has sought an explanation from the doctor and the health workers, and action will be initiated based on their reply, he

State govt. offices to remain shut on second Saturdays

State govt. offices to remain shut on second Saturdays

Disinfection and fumigation work to be undertaken

11/06/2020

The additional monthly off is only a temporary arrangement to contain the spread of COVID-19.

All State government offices, including the Secretariat on the Fort St. George campus, will remain shut on second Saturdays of the month, starting this week, for disinfection and fumigation work, in view of the increasing number of COVID-19 cases reported among employees.

It also means that at least half the State government employees will get an additional day off every month. The Tamil Nadu government last month decided to operate its offices with half the workforce, on a six-day working week, with effect from May 18. However, the additional monthly off is only a temporary arrangement for containing the spread of COVID-19.

“Disinfection was being undertaken even before, but there are increasingly more cases being reported. So we have decided to close offices for disinfection and fumigation works from this weekend,” a senior official told The Hindu.

A G.O. issued in this regard stated that government offices would be closed on second Saturdays “to undertake comprehensive cleaning, sanitising of all government offices”, by adopting guidelines issued by the Centre. Disinfection and fumigation works will go on during the following day, on Sunday, too.

When asked about the demand of employees and representatives from the Tamil Nadu Secretariat Association (TANSA) to go back to the system of allowing only 33% of the workforce, in view of the increasing number of COVID-19 cases on campus, the senior official said that it was still being scrutinised.

“We will see if the two-day cleaning and fumigation work during the second weekend of a month is effective and then decide on whether to go for 33% workforce,” he said.

The officer said that though it had not been officially announced that only 33% of staff were to work, a few employees were still opting to take casual leaves and the government had not strongly reacted to them.