PM calls for janata curfew on Sunday

Modi asks people not to come out unnecessarily; tells them to avoid panic buying

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday urged all citizens to observe a “Janata Curfew” on Sunday, March 22, between 7 am to 9 pm, as part of a social distancing step to prevent the spread of coronavirus in India.

The PM also urged people to stay indoors as far as possible, work from home and not to indulge in the panic buying or hoarding of food items or other items, saying all essential items will be made available.

Incidentally, soon after it was announced Wednesday that the Prime Minister would address the nation on Thursday at 8 pm, people rushed to the markets to buy food and other items in panic, assuming that he will announce a complete lockdown in the country, forcing the Centre to issue an official denial on Thursday afternoon. A lot of regular supplies vanished from the markets as well as online stores.

“There will would not be any shortage of essential items like food, milk, medicines, etc,” Mr Modi said in his address.

He requested citizens to follow certain measures to ensure the containment of the fast-spreading virus and emphasised on the importance of not taking the pandemic lightly, and the need to be aware and proactive about the prevention of Covid-19. He said on the occasion of “Navratra” he was making nine requests to people, adding the patience and resolve of all Indians was vital to fight against the pandemic, which had wreaked havoc all over the world.

“Follow the concept of Janata Curfew on March 22 from 7 am to 9 pm, wherein no one apart from those involved in essential services is supposed to venture out of home,” said Mr Modi, adding that the success of such a people’s movement and the experience gained from it will prepare India for the challenges ahead.