Centre revokes Disaster Management Act provisions for COVID-19

After two years of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Ministry of Home Affairs revoked the provisions of the Disaster Management Act for the containment measures of the virus on Wednesday. 

The Centre decided to put an end to the containment measures in view of the “overall improvement in the situation and preparedness of the government,” although, the use of face masks will continue. 

Home Secretary Ajay Bhalla suggested all states and union territories “to consider appropriately discontinuing” issue of orders and guidelines under the DMA Act, 2005. 

“I would, therefore, advise all the States/UTs to consider appropriately discontinuing issue of orders and guidelines under the DM Act, 2005 for COVID containment measures. The States/UTs may continue to follow the SoPs/advisories that have been or are being issued by the MoHFW from time to time for COVID containment measures, vaccination and other related aspects, including observing COVID appropriate behaviour,” he said in the order.

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Citing the fall in COVID-19 cases over the last weeks, Bhalla said that “no further order may be issued” by the Ministry of Home Affairs to continue the provisions of the act. 

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“I would like to mention that in view of the nature of the disease, we still need to remain watchful of the situation. Wherever any surge in the number of cases is observed, the States/UTs may consider taking prompt and proactive action at the local level, as advised by MOHFW from time to time,” the Home Secretary said in the order.

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“However, Ministry of Health & Family Welfare (MoHFW) advisories on COVID containment measures, including on the use of face mask and hand hygiene, will continue to guide the overall national response to the pandemic,” the official said.