New Delhi, Dec. 3 -- Supreme Court on Thursday stayed the Gujarat High Court order asking those who do not wear masks to do community service at COVID centres.

A three-judge Bench, headed by Justice Ashok Bhushan, also directed the State government to ensure the COVID guidelines are followed at the COVID centres.

While staying the HC order, the Bench, also comprising Justice MR Shah and Justice R Subhash Reddy, said, "Directions issued by the High Court are harsh and if the orders are implemented, then people can be infected with the virus."

However, the Apex Court expressed its concern that people going to malls and parties without wearing masks. The Bench also said there was a need to strictly implement the COVID-19 guidelines.

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