India's civil aviation regulator has advised airport operators to take punitive action by imposing 'spot fines' against passengers violating Covid-19 safety protocols.

In a circular issued on Tuesday, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) said: "The possibility of taking punitive action, such as levy of spot fines in accordance with law, shall also be explored with the local police authorities so as to serve a deterrent for violation of Covid-19 protocols."