Do not play with the emotions of the innocents: Uddhav Thackeray issues warning

Mumbai : After reports of Bihar migrants gathering at Bandra hoping to go back home due to alleged rumours, Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray issued a warning to the rumour mongers and asked them not to play with the emotions of the innocent people.

The crowd was later dispersed by the police officials using force as there was no service taking the migrants back home.

Uddhav Thackeray claimed that the people had gathered because "someone said something". Warning against rumour mongering, he said, "Don't play with their (the people's) emotions. They are poor people. I warn you, don't play with their emotions".

Assuring the people, he said, "We are with you. You are safe. I am speaking with the Centre. We are taking care of you. A lockdown is not like being locked up".

Uddhav Thackeray ruled out reports which claimed that the migrants were moving because they had no food and other essentials for living.

A top police officer described the situation as hordes of people taking an "emotional decision" rather than a rational one out of fear.

On Tuesday, PM Narendra Modi announced an extension of lockdown till May 3.