India To Go Into Complete Lockdown For 21 Days Effective Today Midnight: Here Are The Key Points From PM Modi’s Speech

Prime Minister Narendra Modi while addressing the nation said that effective today midnight the whole country will go into lockdown and citizens are hereby prohibited from leaving their homes.

Prime Minister Modi added that this lockdown is a form of a curfew which is necessary for stopping the spread of coronavirus. He thus requested all Indian citizens to stay put wherever they are. This lockdown would remain active till 21 days.

Prime Minister Modi said that these steps are essential to ensure that the country remains protected from the pandemic. He added that it is well established that coronavirus patients remain asymptomatic for several days and pointed out the exponential nature of its spread.

While acknowledging that this lockdown will result in a huge economic impact on the country but stressed that the lives and welfare of Indian citizens are paramount.

He started the speech by thanking all Indian citizens for making the Janata Curfew a success. He said that all Indians came together to make sure that the exercise was a success.

He added that the threat of the coronavirus pandemic is such that even developed nations are struggling to contain its spread. He said that based on research by health officials, the best way to stop the spread of the virus is to maintain social distancing and self-isolation.

He said that such isolation is imperative to ensure that the vicious infection cycle is broken. While condemning those who are not following social distancing, the Prime Minister said that India and its citizens are at a risk of paying a heavy price for the irresponsible actions of a few.

Prime Minister Modi also asked people to draw a Lakshman Rekha outside one’s house and not step out for three weeks to minimise the effect of the pandemic.

He urged all Indians to spare a thought and pray for all those who are risking their lives to battle the epidemics like - doctors, nurses, paramedical personnel, ambulance drivers and janitors.

He also urged people to spare a thought for police and even media personnel who are tirelessly working to report accurate and important information.

He assured that all efforts are being made to ensure that supply of essential goods are not disrupted.

He informed that the central government has released Rs 15,000 crore to procure essential medical equipment like ventilators. The training of medical and paramedical personnel will also be expedited.

Prime Minister Modi also urged everyone not to fall prey to rumours and refrain from popping pills unless instructed by a doctor.

He concluded the speech by urging everyone to take care of themselves, their loved ones and follow all the laid out laws.