Final decision may be taken after meeting with CMs on Saturday; UP seals hotspots
In an effort to shape a consensus on the ongoing nationwide lockdown, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday told Parliament floor leaders that the situation in the country was akin to a “social emergency”, and indicated the curbs were likely to continue beyond April 14. Interacting with them via videoconferencing, the PM said he would take a decision on extending the lockdown after a meeting with chief ministers on Saturday.
The number of coronavirus cases in the country crossed 5,000 on Wednesday, with 149 deaths, the data from the heath ministry said. According to a government statement, the PM said “several state governments, district administrations, and experts had asked for an extension of the lockdown”. Over the last week, Modi has spoken of a “staggered exit” and a “graded” lifting of the lockdown. Several state governments have also put forward their suggestions on graded lifting, including running special trains, and allowing some industrial activity.
There are concerns in several states, particularly those with bustling urban centres, like Maharashtra, that lifting the lockdown now could be counterproductive and any gains in controlling the spread might be lost. After the four-hour meeting, Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad said nearly 80 per cent of political leaders, including himself, suggested the PM that the lockdown should be extended.The Uttar Pradesh government announced that it would seal coronavirus hotspots in 15 districts across the state from Wednesday midnight till April 14. UP Additional Chief Secretary Awanish Kumar Awasthi said 104 coronavirus hotspots had been identified across 81 police station areas in these districts. A ‘complete lockdown’ would be enforced, he said.
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