COVID-19 lockdown: Centre considering extending nationwide lockdown beyond April 14 after requests by CMs

The nationwide lockdown to contain the spread of COVID-19 is likely to be extended beyond April 14 with the government spokesperson on Saturday saying the Centre is considering a request made by most state chief ministers in this regard during an interaction with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

"During the video-conferencing on coronavirus in India with state CMs today, most states requested Prime Minister Modi to extend the lockdown for two more weeks. The Central Government is considering this request," government's Principal Spokesperson K S Dhatwalia tweeted.

More direct and clear indication of a possible extension came from Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal who tweeted the "PM has taken correct decision to extend lockdown. Today, India's position is better than many developed countries because we started lockdown early. If it is stopped now, all gains would be lost. To consolidate, it is important to extend it."