Neighbourhood, Standalone Shops Can Open In Urban Areas

Those in markets, market complexes and malls will remain shut, says govt.

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The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on Saturday clarified that all shops in rural areas, except those in malls, could open. In urban areas, all standalone and neighbourhood shops and those in residential complexes are allowed to open but not those in markets, market complexes and shopping malls.

The MHA said all restaurants, salons and barber shops would remain closed as they “render services” and the relaxation was granted only to shops selling items. In a statement, the MHA added that liquor shops continued to be prohibited and e-commerce platforms could only be used for the sale of essential items.

Several officials of the State governments said they would stick to the ongoing restrictions and would not immediately implement the order. An official said the final decision on the opening of shops would have to be taken by the States.