PM Narendra Modi calls for 'Janata curfew' on March 22 to combat coronavirus

Prime Minister Narendra Modi today called for the country's citizens to observe a 'janata curfew', or public curfew, between 7 am and 9 pm on March 22 to help combat the spread of the coronavirus outbreak.

"This Sunday, on March 22, all countrymen should follow janata curfew," PM Modi said in an address to the nation.

"During this period, no one should come out of their homes or in their society or building. Only people connected to essential services should venture out," the PM added.

The coronavirus, labelled a pandemic by the World Health Organisation, has infected about 200 people in India, and caused 4 deaths.

"For the past few days, it appears that we have been saved from the crisis. But every Indian needs to be cautious and careful. The threat is not small for a country like India and it will be wrong to assume it will not impact India," PM Modi said.

PM Modi told the nation that all 130 crore citizens of the country have to come together to combat the virus and said the concept of "social distancing" should be adopted by everyone.

"If you feel you are okay and nothing will happen to you, it's wrong," the PM added. "If you are not careful, you are doing injustice to yourself, your loved ones and countrymen."

PM Modi also reassured the country that the government was doing its best to help the economy counter the ill-effects of large-scale public activity.

"I admit there will be challenges during these times. We have decided to create a Covid-19 task force headed by the FM, which will be in constant contact with all stakeholders."

The PM also called on people and large businesses to be sensitive towards those affected by the crisis.

"I request everyone to not cut wages of people giving services who are unable to come to work or your home. I also appeal to the business community and high-income groups to be sensitive to those dependant on them and to not cut wages," the PM said.

Modi also assured countrymen that essentials like milk, food items, medicine will be in adequate supply.

"I appeal to countrymen to not go into panic buying. Buy as you would normally buy."

He added that with the crisis being global in nature, countries have not been able to help each other.

"We have to face difficulties arising out of the pandemic together," he said.