‘Don’t Panic, Will Supply All Essentials’: Kejriwal on Lockdown

Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal spoke on the COVID-19 lockdown.

(Photo: Shruti Mathur/The Quint)

“Delhi is prepared to supply all essential commodities to all residents of the national capital,” said Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Wednesday, 25 March, ensuring that there will be no dearth of essentials in the markets.

Addressing the media after a meeting with the Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal, the Delhi chief minister said here is "no need to panic or crowd markets”.

“After PM Modi’s speech yesterday people started lining up at shops for essential services. I, again, appeal to people to not do panic buying, I assure everyone that there will be no shortage of essential services,” said Kejriwal.

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Baijal also stated, “We will ensure strict implementation of lockdown in Delhi.”

Talking about the suppliers of essential products, Kejriwal stated that to avoid any problems among the local vendors and shopkeepers, e-passes will be provided.

“We will issue passes for those providing essential services, E-passes will be provided to those who need to open their shops and factories for these services,” he added.

Additionally, he also cited a helpline number. “The police commissioner has introduced a helpline number at his office, if you face any difficulty you can call at this number. The number is: 23469536,” said Kejriwal.

Prime Minister Modi on Tuesday, 24 March, had announced a nationwide lockdown starting midnight on 25 March for 21 days to curb the spread of COVID-19.

Meanwhile, the Health and Family Welfare Ministry said on Wednesday that the total number of positive cases in India has risen to 562.

(With inputs from ANI)