After the conclusion of videconferencing with the parties’ floor leaders on Wednesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that it won’t be possible to remove the lockdown in one go as scheduled on April 14. He emphasised on the fact that he will consult all the chief ministers before deciding upon the exit strategy.
He spoke briefly at the end of around three-and-a-half hour meeting and pointed out the fact that the country was going through a “social emergency”.
Many countries over the world are using lockdown and social distancing to contain the spread of Coronavirus. “In the coming days, as you have suggested that the lockdown should not be lifted all of a sudden, it should be staggered. Till now, the suggestions I have been getting is that it won’t be so simple to lift the lockdown. We will have to take some strong measures to ensure social distancing,” he said.
Mr. Modi thanked the parties for their support and positive reactions in this matter. “Today, the situation in the country is akin to a social emergency; it has necessitated tough decisions and we must continue to remain vigilant,” he stated and sought their continued support.
“Kareeb, Kareeb yeh mood ban raha hai ki ek dum se lockdown uthana sambhav nahi hoga,” (The general mood is that it won’t be possible to lift the lockdown at one go).
Leaders of 18 political parties attended the meeting. Top central officials have presentations over steps being taken to tackle the emerging challenges. This also included the status of distribution of benefits under the Gareeb kalyan yojana.
