PM Modi’s virtual meeting with CMs focus on lockdown exit strategy
New Delhi: In a video conference meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi with the Chief Ministers of various states and union territories, several states advocated the extension of the existing lockdown. However, many states and union territories sought more leeway on the economy while retaining some restrictions. According to sources, the states which demanded expansion include Punjab, Telangana, Maharashtra and West Bengal.
This was the fifth meeting of the Prime Minister with the Chief Ministers to deal with the Corona virus. PM Modi said that slowly but surely, economic activities are catching pace in many parts of the country. It will accelerate in the coming days. We must also ensure that rural India is protected from this crisis. Now this is the biggest challenge.
Punjab CM Capt Amarinder said, “The lockdown should be increased in view of Corona infection but with a carefully crafted strategy.” It should also be prepared to save lives and livelihoods with the help of economic and fiscal empowerment of states.
Telangana CM K Chandrasekhar Rao urged not to restart passenger train services to prevent the spread of coronovirus in the country. At the same time, Tamil Nadu CM K Palaniswami said that do not allow train service till May 31 in the state.
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said that the freedom to allow public transport should be given on the conditions of the states.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray said that Mumbai local trains should be resumed for those engaged in essential services.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee demanded a special economic package from the Center and central assistance to bring back all the migrant laborers stranded in different parts of the country. Accusing the central government, Mamata Banerjee said that the Center targeted Bengal for political gains.
At the same time, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said that economic activities should be allowed to resume in all parts of Delhi.
Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel said that state governments should be empowered to take decisions on dealing with economic activities within their states. They should also be responsible for declaring Red, Orange and Green zones.
