PM Modi to Consult Chief Ministers on March 11 to Take Decision on Extension of Lockdown

New Delhi, April 8, 2020:

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has confirmed that he will be meeting the Chief Ministers of all the states on April 11 to hold discussions on the lockdown. PM Modi had earlier announced the lockdown during a late night transmission on March 24.

In a video meeting with leaders of all parties, PM Modi reportedly said he would consult with Chief Ministers but by all accounts the lifting of the lockdown "is not possible".

The meeting, it is to be believed, will take place via video-conferencing and the PM will be addressing some pertinent issues related to the lifting of the lockdown. This meeting is expected to address the "million dollar question", whether the lockdown, that will come to an on April 14, will be lifted or not.

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Earlier, PM Modi had said that there would be a staggered easing of the lockdown, which would be decided upon after reviewing each district on a case-by-case basis.

It is worth noting here that the Centre is contemplating the 21-day lockdown period that ends on March 14 that was earlier called by the PM to contain the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic. Several state Governments are also said to be in favour of prolonging the extension of the lockdown, as there is a chance of resurgence of the spread if free movement and mass gatherings are allowed. Although the number of infections has steadied some, removal of restrictions is sure to accelerate the spread of the pandemic in the countries.

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In fact, the Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu has gone on record saying that “between the considerations of the health of the people and the stabilisation of our economy being debated, the former shall take precedence over the latter”, further hinting that “some degree of hardship” could extend beyond April 14.

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