Lockdown in India likely to be extended, PM Modi drops hits at all-party meeting

New Delhi : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday hinted that the lockdown in the nation is likely to be extended from the set date April 14, restrictions will not be lifted in one go as the number of coronavirus cases are continuously rising in the nation.

In a video conference with the leaders of all party, PM Narendra Modi consulted on the current situation and but cleared that lifting of the lockdown "is not possible".

"The priority of the government is to save each and every life. The situation in the country is akin to a 'social emergency', it has necessitated tough decisions and we must continue to remain vigilant," said the PM.

The lives will not be the same after COVID-19 ends; it will be pre-Corona and post-Corona in coming time.

"Massive behavioural, social and personal changes will have to take place," he reportedly told political leaders in the video conference.

However, there is no official announcement on the lockdown. PM Narendra Modi will be making a decision this week if the ban should be extended and if it gets then for how many days.

The crisis for thousands of migrant workers, rising unemployment and the strain on businesses has increased the pressure on the government to re-open parts of Asia's third-largest economy. Among the plans in discussion is to seal off coronavirus hotspots while easing restrictions in other parts of the country.

It is unlikely that rail travel, buses, metros and religious gatherings will be allowed anywhere in the country.

The total number of coronavirus cases has crossed the 5000-mark and the total number of deaths in India has reached 149.