Apologise for lockdown inconvenience: PM Modi in Mann ki Baat

In his weekly Mann ki Baat address, PM Modi apologised for the inconvience caused by the national lockdown. He sought forgiveness from country for difficult decision that caused hardships to people, especially poor.

“Coronavirus is bent on killing people therefore entire humanity must unite and resolve to eliminate it. The fight against coronavirus is a life and death battle, and tough decisions were necessary,” he said.

“We should take inspiration from all front-line soldiers in the fight against coronavirus, especially nurses, doctors, paramedics. People not following quarantine measures world over are now repenting,” said PM Modi, urging people to be mindful.

He asked Indians to show courage and resolve, follow “Lakshman Rekha” for several days more. “Social distancing doesn’t mean stopping of social interaction. Reconnect with friends,” he said.

On the back of fresh deaths in Gujarat and Jammu and Kashmir, the coronavirus infection death toll in India rose to 25, the health ministry reported, 979 have currently been infected. In its updated data at 10am, the ministry stated that the number of active COVID-19 cases in the country was 867, while 86 people were either cured or discharged and one had migrated. The total number of 979 cases in the country included 48 foreigners, the data stated.