Arvind Kejriwal plans to shut markets emerging as hotspots for Coronavirus

New Delhi : Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Tuesday said that his government has sought Centre's approval to impose a lockdown on markets emerging out as hotspots for coronavirus. The state is also looking at reducing the number of people allowed for weddings back to 50.

CM Arvind Kejriwal's remarks came a day after his government said that the city will not be put under lockdown again due to coronavirus.

"Since cases are rising in Delhi, we are sending a general proposal to the Centre so that, if required, the state government can shut for a few days those markets where social distancing norms are not being followed and they are on the verge of becoming local COVID-19 hotspots," Mr Kejriwal said in an online media briefing today.

"Delhi had allowed up to 200 people at weddings, in keeping with the Central government guidelines. But now we have decided to go back to the earlier limit of 50 people. I have sent a proposal to the Lieutenant Governor for approval. I hope he gives permission soon," Arvind Kejriwal said.

"During Diwali, we observed that many people weren't wearing masks or following social distancing while shopping. People think it (COVID-19) will not happen to them. I request you with folded hands that the Coronavirus disease can happen to anyone, and can turn fatal," the chief minister said.

Since October end this year, the number of coronavirus cases is rapidly increasing in the national capital. On November 3, the city had logged 6,725 cases, three days later it crossed the 7,000 mark. On November 11, the city saw 8,593 new cases, an all-time high. Though Delhi recorded 3,500 cases in the past two days it came with a drop in testing to under 30,000 - half of the usual.