Coronavirus Outbreak: PM Modi interacts with CMs via video-conference; decision on extending lockdown to be decided
This is for the second time the prime minister will interact with the chief ministers via video link after the lockdown was imposed.
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is interacting with chief ministers of all states today via video, where a decision would be taken on whether the 21-day lockdown to check the spread of coronavirus should be extended or not.
To set example to the people of the country, Prime Minister is seen wearing mask made out of “gamcha”.
Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi seen wearing a mask during video-conferencing with the Chief Ministers over #COVID19. Other CMs are also using masks. pic.twitter.com/N6Qfjq9xjy
— ANI (@ANI) April 11, 2020
The video conference comes amidst indications that the central government may extend the lockdown across the country beyond 14 April after several states have favoured the extension to contain the fast-spreading virus.
This is for the second time the prime minister will interact with the chief ministers via video link after the lockdown was imposed.
PM is also likely to address the nation after this meet.
Lockdown cannot be lifted at one go: PM Modi
Addressing floor leaders of various parties who have representation in Parliament, on Wednesday, Prime Minister Modi had made it clear that the lockdown cannot be lifted in one go on 14 April, asserting that the priority of his government is to “save each and every life”.
According to an official statement, he said states, district administrations and experts have suggested extension of the lockdown to contain the spread of the virus.
Odisha has taken a lead and has extended the lockdown till 30 April.
“Prime Minister Modi made it clear that lockdown is not being lifted and also that the life pre-corona and post-corona will not be same,” Biju Janata Dal leader Pinaki Misra had told PTI after Wednesday’s interaction.