The state government indicated its willingness to revise the steep penalties it imposed on violators of Covid safety norms late on Friday night, but that did not stop traders in Jamshedpur to go ahead with their bandh on Saturday in protest against the move that has also been criticised by the Opposition BJP.

The state cabinet okayed the Jharkhand Infectious Disease Ordinance 2020, prescribing Rs 1 lakh fine and two-year jail term for violating Covid safety protocols, like maintaining social distancing and wearing masks, on Thursday. But on Friday, the state health department clarified that the ordinance would take time to implement since it would have to be backed up by proper rules and regulations.

The ordinance, officials explained, was aimed at covering all such diseases which could cause infection/epidemic.

There have been reports and statements in the media indicating that the people in general were confused about the ordinance and its provisions.

“Currently, there isn’t any specific law in the state through which government can enforce the provisions enshrined in the ordinance. While making rules and regulations in this regard, it will be ensured that the punitive provisions and penalties will be duly taken care of depending on the nature of the violation in the interest of larger public,” a clarification issued by the state health department read.

In Jamshedpur, the bandh called by traders and the business community to protest against the ordinance, was total on Saturday. All shops -- garments, hardware, automobile, utensils and jewellery stores _ remained closed in Bistupur, Sakchi and other places in response to the bandh call given by the Singhbhum Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI).

Members of the trade outfit hit the streets and went around Bistupur.

"All traders closed their shops voluntarily. The bandh was a success. It will give a strong message to the state government. We demand roll back of the ordinance, " said Ashok Bhalotia, president of SCCI.