Congress CMs bat for lifting of lockdown in phases

With Puducherry Chief Minister V. Narayansami ready to write to the Centre for the extension of the lockdown, majority of Congress-ruled states are of the view that the lockdown should not be lifted in haste but in a phased manner.

Narayansami said that he is willing to write to the Union Government for the extension of the lockdown, as people isolating themselves is the only cure of Covid-19.

Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera when questioned about Congress chief ministers pitching for lockdown extension, said, "Every state government will be going by the expert advice and nobody wants to play with the health of the citizens. Whatever the government of India decides, we will ensure it is done."

Rajasthan Chief Minister has constituted task forces and will go by their advice while insisting that lockdown should only be removed in a phased manner. The chief minister who has been applauded for the 'Bhilwara model', said that the state has screened about 5 crore people for coronavirus and more is being done to cover the entire population.

Calling both lives and livelihood important, Ashok Gehlot said on Tuesday, "After the video conference with the PM, I have constituted two task forces as life is important. Another task force is to see the lockdown issue which should be exited in a phased manner."

The Chhatisgarh Chief Minister has also written to the Prime Minister that it's important to devise a strategy before lifting the lockdown and allowing interstate travel "If flights, rail and surface transport are opened then there is a possibility that infected persons can come to the state and the problem can persist, and the states will have to face problem in containing this virus," he had said.

"Before opening the interstate travel, a mechanism should be in place so that the spread of the virus could be contained and for this discussion should take place," added Baghel.

The Punjab Chief Minister is also of the view of that partial lifting can be done. However, the punjab government has allowed harvesting in the state with the guideline of social distancing.

"I am happy to share that we've distributed 2.30 lakh ration packets containing 10 kg Atta, 2 kg Dal & 2 kg Sugar across Punjab. Rest are being distributed on war footing. Any needy person may contact DC office or District Control Room," tweeted Captain Amarinder Singh on Tuesday.