Mumbai:
Mass messages on WhatsApp and social media that a full lockdown will be applied in Maharashtra, the state with the highest number of coronavirus cases, starting June 15, prompted Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray to tweet a call so as not to believe malicious rumors.
On May 31, Maharashtra announced its “Mission Begin Again” plan, which allowed outdoor activities from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. and stores to reopen between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., while respecting safety and security practices. social distancing.
The spike in coronavirus cases, however, raised concerns and soon rumors of a complete lockdown – with all restrictions excluding essential services – began to appear on social media.
“The lock has not been reimposed. CM Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray called on people to refrain from hurrying. He sincerely asked them to follow government instructions and take the necessary precautions to stay safe and take care “tweeted the chief minister’s office. its official handle.
The lock has not been reimposed. CM Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray called on the people to refrain from crowding. He sincerely asked them to follow government instructions and take the necessary precautions to stay safe and take care.
– CMO Maharashtra (@CMOMaharashtra) June 12, 2020
Rumors about instant messaging apps like WhatsApp and social media are themselves a kind of pandemic in the middle of coronavirus locking, say tech security experts, as they tend to spread quickly and could potentially cause problems to the public who falls in love with false information.
Maharashtra has 95 laboratories to screen for COVID-19, of which 54 are government laboratories and 41 are managed by private companies.
The rumors could have started after Thackeray warned on Wednesday that the relaxation of the restrictions could be canceled if people did not strictly follow the rules of social distancing.
“The lockdown can continue if that happens. But I am confident that people will listen to government rules and directives because it takes care of their well-being,” said Thackeray.
The government led by Shiv Sena has authorized the opening of government offices with 15 percent staff and private offices with 10 percent staff. Taxis, autorickshaws and personal vehicles can circulate, but with conditions. Those who frequent the offices will have to undergo daily thermal control and will have to strictly respect the standards of social distancing.