Kejriwal confirms lockdown extension, says 'PM has taken correct decision to extend'

In a massive decision, Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal on Saturday has revealed that PM Modi has taken decision to extend Coronavirus (COVID-19) lockdown. Without mentioning how long lockdown is extended, he said that 'PM has taken right decision'. While Centre is yet to make a formal anuncement, confirming lockdown extension, sources state that several state Chief Ministers like Udhhav Thackeray (Maharashtra), Kejriwal (Delhi) and Punjab have backed extending lockdown in PM-CM conference held earlier in day. India's current tally at 7447 with 239 deaths.

Punjab cabinet unanimously approves extension of lockdown in state till May 1

Kejriwal: 'PM Modi has taken right decision to extend lockdown' 

Kejriwal suggests extension of lockdown till Apr 30 during PM Modi's interaction with CMs: Sources

PM Modi talks to states on lockdown extension

Sources report that during interaction with all state CMs, PM Modi remarked 'Jaan hai to jahan hai' adding, "When I had addressed nation I had said that to save life of every citizen, lockdown and social distancing are very important." Hinting at extension of lockdown but in a staggered manner, sources state that PM Modi has said we must allow labourers and farmers to return to work remarking ‘Jaan bhi aur Jahaan bhi’. In meeting, PM and all CMs were seen wearing masks amid rising coronavirus cases, and some state's directive making mask compulsory. Moreover, PM Modi too has hinted towards extending lockdown, but has directed states to also ready an exit plan for a staggered lockdown post- April 14.

PM Modi interacts with all states' CMs to decide on extension of nationwide Covid lockdown

States for lockdown

While Odisha and Punjab have officially extended lockdown, several or states like Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Karnataka, Telangana, Delhi, Tamil Nadu are mulling to extend lockdown atleast till end of April. Some or states like Chhatisgarh, Meghalaya, Kerala, which have t seen a rapid increase in cases, have preferred a selective lockdown, relaxing curfew in most parts and limiting lockdown to COVID-19 hotspots. Most states have also readied exit-plans in case Centre does t anunce a nationwide lockdown post-April 14.

Coronavirus LIVE Updates: PM Modi interacts with all CMs on lockdown, total cases at 7447

Coronavirus crisis in India

As of date, 6565 active cases have been reported of pandemic Coronavirus (COVID-19) - 642 have been discharged and Maharashtra reported highest at 1574. 239 deaths have been reported till date. India has suspended all visas and barred travel from Afghanistan, Philippines, EU, UK, China, Malaysia and mandatory 14-day quarantine from several or countries. Prime Minister has issued a 21-day countrywide lockdown starting from 23 March to April 15 and Finance Minister has anunced a Rs 1.7 lakh crore pack under 'PM Gareeb Kalyan Scheme'.