Amid COVID fears, KU decides to impose hefty fines on employees, visitors for not wearing masks

Srinagar, Aug 29: Fearing COVID, the University of Kashmir has decided to impose fine on employees who violate Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and do not wear masks.

The directive comes after new positive cases were reported from the General Administrative Department and Accounts Section last week.

Official sources confirmed that the departments have been closed as a precautionary measure and all the employees have been asked to remain under home quarantine.

“The employees were neither wearing masks nor following SOPs. Many were seeing roaming without a mask. They were visiting departments unnecessary which led to the spread of infection in the campus,” an official said.

Registrar of Kashmir University, Dr. Nisar Ahmad Mir told The Kashmir Monitor that the departments have been closed for a few days.

“Positive patients have been asked to stay at home until their reports come back negative. We have identified the first contacts and they have also been advised to remain under home quarantine for 15 days,” he said.

Later Mir formally issued circular cautioning employees against any laxity. “It has been observed that some employees are not following COVID-19 SOPs particularly maintaining social distance, wearing a mask, and are visiting offices without any definite purpose. If any employee or any visitor on the campus is found violating COVID 19 protocol. he or she shall be liable for fines or disciplinary action or penalty as per the order issued by the District Disaster Management Authority,” the circular said.

Chief Proctor has been authorized to impose fine on such employees or visitors who violate the COVID-19 protocols. “Any employee failing to pay fine on spot, same shall be deducted from his or her salary,” the circular said.