Surguja (Chhattisgarh) [India], June 23 (ANI): Social distancing norms were flouted in Ambikapur, Surguja during the birthday celebrations of Food and Civil Supply Minister Amarjeet Bhagat on Monday.

Amarjit Bhagat and his son were distributing mask and blanket on the occasion.

Also Read | Jagannath Rath Yatra 2020 Live Streaming on OTV and DD Odia: Watch Online Telecast of Puri's Chariot Festival From Home During Lockdown.

While speaking to media, the Minister said, "People should maintain social distancing. Also, they should wear mask and use sanitizer. Coronavirus has not ended yet. We all should stay alert."

With an increase of 14,821 new cases and 445 deaths, India's COVID-19 count crossed 4.25 lakh on Monday. The country has reported a total of 4,25,282 cases and 13,699 persons have died.

Also Read | Jagannath Rath Yatra 2020 in Ahmedabad: Gujarat High Court Denies Permission For Chariot Festival Procession.

The Health Ministry said that 9,440 patients have been cured in the last 24 hours and the country's recovery rate has gone up to 55.77 per cent. (ANI)

(The above story is verified and authored by ANI staff, ANI is South Asia's leading multimedia news agency with over 100 bureaus in India, South Asia and across the globe. ANI brings the latest news on Politics and Current Affairs in India & around the World, Sports, Health, Fitness, Entertainment, & News. The views appearing in the above post do not reflect the opinions of LatestLY)