Curfews and restrictions all over India before the New Year: What you need to know

New Year is just around the corner. But unfortunately, the Omicron variant has also joined the party. Concerns have been rising not only in India, but all around the world in the light of a potential third wave of the pandemic. With numbers of reported cases multiplying at a rapid rate, hospitals are already bearing the brunt. To control this worrisome situation, numerous state governments in the country have placed restrictions and curfews for the last night of the year. Read on to find out more. 

Delhi 
Delhi is by far the worst affected by Omicron. So, a yellow alert has already been issued by the Delhi government with schools, colleges, and other educational institutes been closed again. This comes after the state’s initial plan of slowly reopening schools in a phased manner. Gyms, theatres and public gatherings are also barred, with restaurants allowed to function at half of their capacity. Additionally, a night curfew from 10 pm to 5 am has also been imposed. 

Maharashtra 
With a night curfew from 9pm- 6pm already put in place since Christmas, the state government of Maharashtra has announced additional measures to control public gathering. Events in closed spaces can take place with half the capacity of attendance, while those out in the open cannot host more than 25% of the attendance capacity. There is no such ban on New Year celebrations yet. However, the case is different for Mumbai. Section 144 has been imposed on the city, with celebrations and parties being banned amid the surging cases. 

Karnataka 
Karnataka was one of the first states to roll out restrictions, with a night curfew from 10 pm to 5 am already being in place since December 28. All outdoor New Year celebrations have been banned. However, indoor ones are permitted with half the capacity only for those who have been fully vaccinated.  

Rajasthan 
Only those who have been vaccinated with both jabs are allowed to be in public places. No more than 200 people can be present at public gatherings. Along with this, a night curfew between 11 pm and 5 am is also being observed throughout the state of Rajasthan. 

Goa 
It is no secret that the New Year celebrations are always in full swing in this state. It is relatively relaxed here, the only requirements being a negative COVID test or a proof of complete vaccination. No curfews or restrictions have been imposed by the state government yet.