Maharashtra: Imposing Complete Lockdown Only Option To Control Coronavirus, Decision In 2 Days – Uddhav Thackeray
Mrunal Jadhav
Pune, 10th April 2021: With the increasing number of Corona patients every day, the possibility of lockdown in the state has increased. Therefore, Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray will hold a meeting with the state’s Covid 19 task force tomorrow (Sunday) to announce the decision of lockdown and for how many days.
“Restrictions were earlier imposed at the district level to control the spread of Coronavirus disease (Covid-19). Strict restrictions were then imposed across the state on weekends and other days. New guidelines were issued. But the situation does not seem to be improving. People are leaving home for work despite being told to opt for work from home. The markets are also getting crowded. Rules are not followed even in marriage ceremonies. That is why we have to make tough decisions now. I expect this decision to be taken unanimously”, said the Chief Minister in a meeting with leaders of all political parties and Cabinet ministers through video conferencing.
The meeting was attended by Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, Ministers Ashok Chavan, Balasaheb Thorat, Dilip Walse Patil, Eknath Shinde, Jayant Patil, Rajesh Tope, Amit Deshmukh, as well as Nana Patole, Leader of Opposition Devendra Fadnavis, Pravin Darekar, Chandrakant Patil and others. Chief Secretary Sitaram Kunte briefed about the COVID situation in Maharashtra and how the government is facing the challenge.
Fadnavis expressed fears of a public outcry if the complete lockdown was imposed. The government should take tough decisions but those who have to meet their daily needs should be considered. He demanded a financial package for them.
“We will cooperate with the government but you have to take the initiative,” Fadnavis said.
Minister Ashok Chavan suggested an alternative should be found for lockdown. People should be given two or three days before deciding about the lockdown, he added.