Coronavirus scare: Delhi govt bans all gatherings with more than 50 people; Seven infected so far in national capital

People who came in contact with the infected patients have been traced and are being quarantined in their homes, he said.

"I appeal to the people under home quarantine to isolate themselves properly following all the directions of the health officials. Please do not mix with anyone, in your own interest as well as the community. We are keeping in touch with all those who are in home quarantine but we expect them to support us in overcoming the disease and its spread," Kejriwal said.

In case the virus infects a large number of people, he said, more than five hundred beds have been prepared to deal with the situation.

Kejriwal said a new order has been issued to prohibit large gatherings. "All religious, social, family, cultural, political gatherings should be compulsorily limited to only 50 people as per the latest directive," he stated.

However, marriages have been excluded from this order, the Chief Minister said, adding that people must consider postponing marriage ceremonies if possible in view coronavirus.

Besides all education institutes, anganwadis and swimming pools which had been closed till March 31 by a previous order, the Delhi government has today ordered the closure of Gyms and spas till the end of this month.

He said MCD Commissioners and SDMs have been asked to set up mobile washbasins so that people can wash hands frequently.

"SDMs will be given the target of setting up washbasins in their areas. We have ensured large buildings keep hand sanitizers with the security guards so that people entering and leaving those buildings, sanitize their hands.

Asked about Shaheen Bagh protest site, Kejriwal said no gathering with more than 50 people will be allowed even if it is a protest and read out the copy of the directive which said "All religious, social, family, cultural, political gatherings should be compulsorily limited to only 50 people" to assert the point.

Answering questions about complaints against government quarantine facilities, he said most patients who have been quarantined are of affluent background and may not be satisfied with the facilities.

"I accept, the quarantine facilities are not perfect and maybe lacking. We have arranged quarantine rooms with three hotels in Delhi to ensure such people don't face difficulties, but they will have to pay for availing the facility and it will not be free," the Chief Minister said.