Ensure No Restrictions are Imposed on Movement of People and Goods: Centre Writes to States

The central government has asked all states to ensure there are no restrictions on inter-state and intra-state movement of persons and goods during the ongoing unlocking process. In a communication to chief secretaries of all states and Union Territories, Union Home Secretary Ajay Bhalla said there were reports that local level restrictions on movement were being imposed by various districts and states.

Drawing attention to the Unlock 3 guidelines, Bhalla said such restrictions are creating problems in inter-state movement of goods and services and are impacting supply chains, resulting in disruption in economic activity and employment. The unlock guidelines clearly state there shall be no restrictions on inter-state and intra-state movement of persons and goods, he said in the letter.

The guidelines also said no separate permission, approval or e-permit will be required for movement of persons and goods for cross land border trade under treaties with neighbouring countries. Bhalla said such restrictions amount to violation of guidelines issued by Ministry of Home Affairs under provisions of Disaster Management Act, 2005.

The letter asked states to impose no restrictions and to ensure that the unlock guidelines are followed.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had first announced a nationwide lockdown with effect from March 25 to combat the coronavirus pandemic; the lockdown was subsequently extended till May 31.

Since June 1, the unlock process began with the opening up industrial activities and offices across the country.