Like COVID-19, there is a communal virus too: Uddhav Thackeray

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Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray on Saturday warned those spreading wrong messages to the citizens and uploading such videos even for the sake of fun, and said that like COVID-19, there is a communal virus too.

"We did not let what happened in Delhi happen in Maharashtra. It (Tableeghi Jamaat event) was permitted earlier, but later looking at the situation we withdrew the permission. Authorities now have traced all those who went to the Delhi event from our state," Thackeray said.

"Like COVID-19 virus, there is a communal virus too. I am warning those who are spreading wrong messages to the citizens and uploading such videos even for the sake of fun. This COVID-19 virus sees no religion," he added.

The Chief Minister further shared that Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan has offered his office, while many hotels are coming forward to help.

"Each and every one is helping at their end. I am thankful to all of them who are helping us at this point of time," Thackeray said.

He also made it clear that until further notice, "no programmes, events or any event which gathers crowd will be permitted."

"Post April 14, we will decide what has to be done as we see the number of coronavirus cases in Maharashtra is increasing drastically," he said.

Around five lakh people have been provided with food and shelter, Thackeray said.

"So, no one needs to go anywhere. I already had a word with the Chief Ministers of other states. If someone from Maharashtra is stuck in other states, then inform the local administration, inform the state Chief Minister, they will take care of you. Whereas, if someone from other states are here in Maharashtra, there is nothing to worry about it. We will take care of them," he said.

We are building up COVID-19 hospitals in Maharashtra, he added.

Thackeray further stated that vegetable and grocery shops are open 24X7.

"Then why do we need to make the place crowded? Being a responsible citizen, keep your safe distance," he said and added, "We will win this war against the coronavirus.