Sikkim Chief Minister P S Tamang today chaired a meeting of State Task Force to review the plan of action on COVID-19 in Gangtok.<br />'' <br />''The meeting was attended by Cabinet Ministers and administrative officers, among others. Mr Tamang informed about the State Government's effective coordination in tackling the COVID-19 situation.<br />'' <br />''Sikkim has extended the statewide lockdown till 1st of August due to increasing cases of the infection.<br />'' <br />''The Chief Minister said that the sudden surge in COVID-19 cases in the state is due to gross violation of lockdown norms despite repeated appeals.<br />'' <br />''He stressed on the need to follow basic guidelines and directed the police to initiate action against violation of lockdown guidelines.<br />'' <br />''Pointing to fake news being circulated in social media, Mr Tamang stressed on the need to disseminate correct and factual information. <br />''<br />''He also warned of action against spreading fake news.<br />'' <br />''The Chief Minister said that after 1st of August, there could be slight relaxations to facilitate certain activities.<br />'' <br />''During the meeting, it was informed that persons coming in contact with COVID-19 patients should immediately contact the state toll-free helpline number 104.<br />'' <br />''<span style="color: #222222;">Mr Tamang also directed the State Administration to immediately address manpower shortage in the Health Department.</span><br />