Maharashtra imposes statewide curfew as COVID-19 cases touch 97

In the backdrop of an increasing number of coronavirus positive cases in Maharashtra, Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray on Monday (March 23) announced the statewide curfew imposing Section 144.

“Today I am compelled to announce a statewide curfew. People were not listening and we are compelled,” said Thackeray.

He also said that the government is sealing district borders to prevent the spread of coronavirus in the districts which are not affected by it. Maharashtra has now 97 confirmed cases of coronavirus with eight new cases being detected today.

“Yesterday we sealed the state borders and today we are sealing district borders. We will not allow it to spread to the districts which are unaffected as of now,” said Thackeray.

“Essentials like groceries, milk, bakery, medical, etc will remain open. People need not panic. All religious places will remain closed. Only the priests and clerics alone will be inside and pray. Today I am compelled to announce a statewide curfew. People were not listening and we are compelled,” he added.

Related news: COVID-19 cases rise to 415; most parts of India under lockdown

Earlier in the day, Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh has announced a “full curfew” in the state “with no relaxations” in a bid to combat the coronavirus pandemic.

Prime Minister Modi also asked state governments to ensure rules of lockdown are followed properly and called on citizens to take the issue seriously.

“Many people are still not taking the lockdown seriously. Please save yourself by doing this, save your family, follow the instructions seriously. I request the state governments to ensure the rules and laws are followed,” he tweeted.

The number of coronavirus positive patients in India rose to 415 on Monday, as per the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR).