Assam imposes full lockdown in 3 districts to contain COVID spread

The Assam government on April 12 decided to abide by the Centre’s directive on the nationwide lockdown to combat the spread of COVID-19.

The number of positive COVID-19 cases in the state stood at 29, including one patient who has died due to the complications caused by the virus. On April 12, one person from Dimapur in Nagaland was tested positive in Guwahati Medical College and Hospital (GMCH). The patient was referred to GMCH by a private hospital in Dimapur.

A state Cabinet meeting, chaired by Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, decided that it will formulate its next course of action based on the directives of the Centre on the lockdown.

The ongoing 21-day nationwide lockdown is slated to get over at midnight of April 14.

Many states, including West Bengal, Odisha, Maharashtra and Punjab, have decided to extend the lockdown in their respective states, while the Centre is yet to announce its directives.

Meanwhile, chairing an all-party meet convened by the government to derive suggestions from the leaders of all political parties of the state, Sonowal said in view of spike in infection of Novel Coronavirus in Assam, leaders cutting across all political parties need to demonstrate consolidation of the spirit of Team Assam to fight against COVID-19.

The chief minister maintained that there is no denying that complete lockdown has had its effect on the economic activities of the people and overall economic health of the state.

He said during lockdown, the government machinery has shown its commitment to make available of all essential commodities within the reach of every individual.

Reiterating the government’s commitment to the welfare of all sections of the people especially those belonging to the economically backward classes, Sonowal said government is implementing its schemes resolutely, including transferring financial benefits to bank accounts.

Regarding the workers and other people of Assam stranded in other parts of the country, Sonowal said the Assam Bhawan and Assam Houses in different states have been directed to take care of their accommodation and food as government will take pragmatic steps to address the fear of their economic future.

State Health and Family Welfare Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma presented scenario of COVID-19 in the state and different health measures that the department has undertaken for the treatment of the disease.

The leaders of different political parties from Congress, AGP, AIUDF, BPF, CPI, CPI(M), CPI (ML), NCP, RJD, Trinamool Congress, UPPL and others took part in the meeting and gave suggestions to contain and control COVID-19 in the state.

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