CPI-M MP asks airlines, rail not to levy cancellation charges

A Rajya Sabha MP on Monday asked the government to instruct airlines and Indian Railways not to levy cancellation charges on tickets as people alter travel plans due to spread of coronavirus.

During Zero Hour, several MPs also suggested people should follow simple preventive measures like washing of hands to check the spread of the virus.

AIADMK MP S SR Balasubramaniam also suggested that the ongoing Budget session of Parliament could be curtailed.

Raising the issue in the Upper House, Elamaram Kareem (CPI-M) said several states have closed educational institutions and other places to check the spread of coronavirus.

Besides, public gatherings have been cancelled. He said a large number of people have changed their travel plans and forced to cancel their air and train tickets. The CPI-M member urged the government to intervene and ask airlines and Indian railways to forgo cancellation charges.

As several other members agreed with Kareem, Chairman M Venkaiah Nadiu said it was a suggestion worth considering. TMC MP Derek O'Brien said simple steps like washing hands for 20 seconds, staying inside and covering face while sneezing should be followed.

Sasmit Patra of the BJD suggested banks should properly sanitise ATMs as they are used by a large number of people. BJP's Vikas Mahatme said rumours like one should not eat chicken, needs to be dispelled by the government and its agencies.

Meanwhile, Saroj Pandey (BJP) made a case for holding states and centre election simultaneously to reduce expenditure.

D Kupendra Reddy (JD-S) highlighted the high number of cases pending in courts of Karnataka, and said all vacancies of judges/judicial officers should be filled to address the issue.

Manoj Kumar Jha of the RJD suggested wages under job guarantee scheme MNREGA should be increased to Rs 600 per day in line with the 7th Central Pay Commission.

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