21 days national lockdown in India from Tuesday midnight: PM Modi

March 24: In order to save India and all its citizens, complete lockdown of entire country for 21 days from 12 midnight of Tuesday was declared by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This he said would be similar to curfew and none should come out of their respective house. All states and Union Territories of India will come under this lockdown from midnight. He said, “India will go for 21 days lockdown from midnight of Tuesday.”

Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the 2nd time addressed the nation on Tuesday at 8 PM. He began by thanking all section of the populace for making the “Janata Curfew” of 22 March a great success. He said, “India has shown the strength of unity in times of crisis. You all deserve credit for this.”

Addressing the nation on battling the COVID-19 menace. #IndiaFightsCorona https://t.co/jKyFMOQO5a

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 24, 2020

He said, “Your one step outside the house will invite the deadly corona in your house. The symptoms of corona in our body may manifest many days later. One infected person can infect thousands, according to UNO. It took 67 days to infect 1 lakh persons, but then in next 11 days, the virus infected another 1 lakh. However, the next 1 lakh people were infected in only 4 days.” He said if this chain of death is to be broken, then none should come out of their houses. “If we do not obey this 21 days lockdown, then probably we will not be able to compensate the loss in the next 21 years.”

You are also seeing how the most empowered nations of the world have been brought in the grip of COVID-19. The virus is spreading so fast that inspite of all preparations, it is challenging the developed nations of the world. Experts are of the opinion that “social distancing” is the only way to combat coronavirus. We should lock ourselves in our room. Apart from this, there is no other way to save ourselves. We will have to break the chain by hook or by crook, said PM Modi.

Social distancing is for every citizen, every family members and even for the Prime Minister. The irresponsible attitude of some persons will jeopardize the entire nation. India will have to pay a heavy price if such irresponsible behaviour of some people continues.

By converging around shops, you are risking the spread of COVID-19.

No panic buying please.

Please stay indoors.

I repeat- Centre and State Governments will ensure all essentials are available. https://t.co/bX00az1h7l

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 24, 2020

He said, “India is now in that stage where our actions will determine our ability to survive. As long as there is lockdown, we should all stay inside our house and pray for those who are working at the risk of their lives. We should acknowledge the services of doctors, nurses, paramedical staff, journalists etc who are out on the streets to offer services.”

The Prime Minister made it clear that all should have to abide by all the orders of central and state government. He said Rs. 15,000 crore was earmarked for this fight against coronavirus. In this 28 minute address, the Prime Minister said that the state must put health care as its top most priority. The 3-week lockdown should be followed by the people in letter and spirit.

Mr. Modi also said, “Do not fall prey to rumors and fake news. Please follow only advisories given by the government. I request you not to take medicine without a doctor’s prescription. In these 21 days, I request you to take care of yourself and your family members and fight this disease with self confidence. ”

Ministry of Home Affairs will shortly issue guidelines of effective measures and exceptions to the essential services during this 21-day lockdown. There will shortly be an MHA 24/7 hotline to assist states during this period.

Also Read: Nationwide Lockdown: Home Ministry guidelines on what is open, what is shut