Cong backs lockdown, raises questions over relief to poor

After the Prime Minister announced 21-day complete lockdown to curb the spread of coronovirus, the Congress here on Tuesday asked Narendra Modi about relief measures.

New Delhi, March 24 After the Prime Minister announced 21-day complete lockdown to curb the spread of coronovirus, the Congress here on Tuesday asked Narendra Modi about relief measures.

"How will daily wagers, workers in small businesses survive for 21 days," remarked Congress spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala.

Hailing the lockdown decision, Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh tweeted, "I wholeheartedly support @narendramodi ji decision of complete lockdown of the country. This is the only way to fight #Covid19 and save millions of lives."

"But urge @PMOIndia to immediately announce a relief package for the poor and daily wagers," Amrinder said.

The Congress said the nation would adhere to the lockdown, but what the government was doing to contain the pandemic. It also raised questions over facilities provided to the healthcare workers.

The Prime Minister also announced allocation of Rs 15,000 crore to strengthen healthcare infrastructure to fight coronavirus.

In a televised speech, he said, "Today the Centre has decided to give Rs 15,000 crore for testing facilities, personal protection, isolation beds, ICU beds, ventilators and training medical and paramedical staff. Healthcare should be the only priority of every state government."

( With inputs from IANS )