The Ministry of Home Affairs on Monday said that no state or a Union Territory can dilute the guidelines issued for the fourth phase of nationwide lockdown that will continue till May 31.
In a letter to the Chief Secretaries of States, Union Home Secretary Ajay Bhalla said that the guidelines have been issued after taking into consideration of the state governments following a video-conference held by Prime Minister Narendra Modi with chief ministers on May 11.
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“As emphasised in my earlier letters, I would like to reiterate again that States and Union Territories cannot dilute restrictions imposed vide the aforesaid guidelines issued by MHA,” said Bhalla.
“States and UTs, based on their assessment of the situation, may prohibit certain other activities in various zones, or impose such restrictions as deemed necessary,” he added
“I would urge you to ensure compliance of the new guidelines and direct all concerned authorities for their strict implementation,” he further added.
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In his letter, Bhalla also mentioned that a limited number of activities will continue to remain prohibited throughout the country.
“ In order to facilitate the movement of persons, various modes of transport have been opened up as per SOPs issued by MHA,” said Bhalla.
He also said that only essential activities would be allowed inside the containment zones whereas all other activities other than those prohibited in the MHA guidelines would be permitted.
Bhalla also said that the states and union territories can be divided into red, orange and green zones according to the revised guidelines issued by the health ministry on Sunday.
“Within the containment zones, strict perimeter control shall be maintained and no movement of persons would be allowed across the zones except for medical emergencies and for maintaining the supply of essential goods and services,” he added.