Special Assistant to Prime Minister on Youth Affairs Usman Dar said on Thursday the government would send people to jail if they defy wearing face mask as part of protective measures against Covid-19.

Usman Dar said that the government is all set to launch a country-wide crackdown on violators after 48 hours. He added the government would show no leniency as it is a matter of life.

A couple of weeks ago, Special Assistant to Prime Minister  on Health Dr Zafar Mirza said wearing masks was mandatory at crowded public places and in public transport.

“Face masks are now mandatory to be worn by everybody while in crowded public places, mosques, bazaars, shopping malls, public transport. We have reviewed our guidelines for wearing masks and have added a mandatory section,” he tweeted.