PANJIM: The Goa Chief Minister DrPramod Sawant announced a complete lockdown of the state from the midnight of March 24 till March 31. He said that it is going to be a 100 percent lockdown with no shops to be open. THis is a part of a countrywide attempt to slow the spread of Coronaviurus which has plagued the country.
On Sunday, towards the closure of the Junta Curfew, the Goa government further extended it till the midnight of March 25. There was s light relaxation between 6 am and 11 on Tuesday for people to buy essential items like groceries etc and it was expected that the same facility would be offered for all the lockdown days. That doesn't appear to be the same now. However, further clarity on this is expected.
The Goa Lockdown has been ordered under the epidemic act. The police has given powers to act against the violators.
The Chief Minister urged people to understand the seriousness of the matter and adhere to the guidelines. He said that those refusing to go for home quarantined will be forced by the police to do so.
The Media also advised not to go out for photographs and news feeds.
However, there has been criticism against the CM's call including from his own party. Former Panjim MLA Siddharth Kuncaliencar tweeted, "People will no longer cooperate with Govt if this goes on". However, the Chief Minister said later that people will be provided essential commodities through a proper mechanism.
Meanwhile, all OPDs have been suspended in primary health centers. Only emergency cases will be handled.
"I appeal to people to maintain social distancing and support the lockdown to ensure there is complete curfew. People's health and life is more important", said Chief Minister Sawant.
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