Modi govt fights pressure to lock down India

 


At this critical time when India’s COVID-19 tally has crossed a grim milestone of two-crore with over 50 lakh cases recorded in just 15 days, PM Modi-led Central government is facing the tough question as pressure has mounted from international health experts, business leaders and senior political leaders to impose complete lockdown in the country to beat the second wave of Coronavirus. Will PM Modi go for a complete lockdown in India again just like last year? Well, no official statement from the Central government has been issued as yet on the matter. However, it is being urged that the Centre should impose a complete lockdown in the country as soon as possible. 

Widely criticised for allowing religious festivals and political rallies attended by thousands of unmasked people, the Central government at the moment is reluctant to impose a national lockdown for fear of the economic fallout.

However, without being afraid of the economic crisis, several states have already imposed lockdown-like restrictions to contain the virus. On Tuesday, the eastern Indian state of Bihar ordered a lockdown until May 15

On the other hand, India on Tuesday also suspended its hugely popular Indian Premier League (IPL) as the outbreak continued to spiral. “While we have tried to bring in some positivity and cheer, it is imperative that the tournament is now suspended and everyone goes back to their families and loved ones in these trying times,” the IPL said.

Will India impose lockdown? Well, the Centre, however, has refuted reports of imposing a complete lockdown in the country. Earlier, the Centre has asked states and UTs to focus on “customised lockdowns” in districts where the positivity rate is above 15 per cent to control the surge.

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