Chidambaram on lockdown: Govt needs to find Rs 5 lakh crore to manage the economic consequences

Senior Congress leader and one of the most vociferous critique of the Modi government, P Chidambaram though welcomed the idea of 21-day complete lockdown, he set alarm bell ringing about the economic fallout of the lockdown.

Saying that “the lockdown is late, but better late than never” Chidambaram said in one of his tweets, “Government needs to find Rs 5 lakh crore over the next 4-6 months to manage the economic consequences”.

Pointing out that the PM did not dwell on facilities for the medical fraternity, Chidambaram questioned the mearge allocation of Rs 15,000 crore to strengthen the health infrastructure also.

“The PM’s announcement left a gaping hole. Who is going to provide cash to the poor that they need for the next 21 days? Why does it take four days and more to work out the promised financial package? We have enough talent to finalise the package in four hours.”

“What is the meaning of Rs 15,000 crore announced by Prime Minister? Let me repeat —The right thing to do is for every citizen to support the lockdown whatever may be the hardships,” said the former finance minister.

“I am certain the PM understands the urgency of announcing a financial package and putting cash in the pockets of the poor, daily workers, agricultural workers, self-employed etc. There are other pressing sectoral problems that have to be addressed. For example, how are the farmers going to harvest their crop beginning April 1?” questioned Chidambaram.