Karnataka CM B S Yediyurappa: “There Will Be No Lockdown In Bengaluru Or Anywhere In The State From Now On”

In an address to the people of Karnataka through television news channels and social media platforms, Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa on Tuesday said there would be no more lockdowns in the southern state from Wednesday.

“As lockdown is not a solution to defeat COVID-19, there will not be anymore lockdown in Bengaluru or anywhere in Karnataka,” Yediyurappa told the people in a 20-minute address in Kannada from here on Tuesday evening.

People need to get back to their livelihoods. The state has to think of rejuvenation of the economy too," he added

The 9-day renewed lockdown in Bengaluru Urban and Rural districts ends at 5a.m. on Wednesday.

“The only way to fight corona virus pandemic is to compulsorily wear mask, wash hands and maintain social distancing by every citizen. Each citizen has to take care of his/her health by strictly following the guidelines,” asserted the Chief Minister.

Restrictions on movement of people and vehicles will continue in containment areas across Bengaluru and cities and towns where more Covid cases are reported.

The CM had a word of caution for senior citizens too. "Don't come out of the house. All senior citizens should be extra vigilant." He also sought sensitivity from the public towards to those infected by the virus. "Please do not panic and and please do not attempt suicide. About 98 per cent of those affected have recovered," he urged.

Admitting that there was a delay in getting test reports earlier, Yediyurappa said steps have been taken to ensure they (reports) were delivered in 24 hours.

“We have been taking measures to contain the virus spread in the state since mid-March and control the situation in hotspots. A real-time dashboard has been set up to track beds for COVID-19 patients,” the chief minister reiterated.

Referring to reports of Covid positive patients attempting to commit suicide, the chief minister appealed to them not to resort to drastic action but recover soon.

Refuting the opposition Congress charges of irregularities and corruption in the purchase of medical equipment, Yediyurappa said not a rupee had been misappropriated and all expenditure had been accounted for.

“I appeal to the opposition to make constructive criticism but not hinder our work and service to the people in this hour of crisis. This is not the time to bicker but cooperate with the government in fighting the pandemic,” he added.

(With Inputs from IANS)