Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray on Saturday ordered hotels and restaurants in the state to ensure strict adherence to COVID-19 protocols in their premises. He warned them not to force the state to enforce drastic measures like lockdown. Speaking at a virtual meeting the CM said a "lackadaisical" attitude towards outbreak norms had crept in lately. The CM pointed out that crowds had increased in most places since activities resumed in a phased manner from October, and safety rules were not being followed resulting in a steep surge in cases. The state recorded 15,602 cases on Saturday.