Covid-19: V-P Naidu hints at lockdown extension, says 'health over economy'

As the Centre weighs the economic costs of the 21-day lockdown, and a calibrated exit from it April 14 onwards, Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu on Tuesday said health concerns should take precedence over that of economic stabilisation in deciding the post-lockdown roadmap.

In a statement on the completion of two weeks of the lockdown today, Naidu said the third week of the lockdown, which starts Wednesday, would be crucial for decision making on the exit.

The Vice President said that the data regarding the extent and rate of spread of virus infection will have a bearing on the exit strategy. He appealed to the people to abide by whatever decision follows on April 14, and cooperate with the same spirit that has so far been demonstrated even if hardships were to continue after April 14. Read More