New Delhi: India on late Saturday evening announced that it will extend the ongoing COVID-19 lockdown for another one month till June 30. The government however announced more relaxation for the lockdown 5.0.

Malls and Restaurants have now been allowed to open from June 8 except for those in containment zones.

Religious places, hotels and restaurants will also be allowed from June 8, the home ministry has said in its new guidelines ordering phased re-opening of areas outside containment zones.

"The current phase of re-opening, Unlock 1, will have an economic focus," said the guidelines.

The new guidelines had been issued based on extensive consultations held with States and Union Territories, the home ministry said.

 

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Bidar: Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has expressed strong condemnation for the tragic murder of Neha Hiremath from Hubli and has assured speedy action against the accused through an expedited CID investigation.

Speaking to the media in Bidar today, the Chief Minister addressed the BJP's call for a CBI investigation, stating, "Did the BJP refer any cases to the CBI during their tenure? I have done so while in power. What moral authority do they have to demand it now? This should not be politicized." He further said that the accused has been already apprehended and that the CID is actively conducting investigations, with a charge sheet to be prepared soon.

Stern approach to justice, no political exploitation

CM Siddaramaiah urged other parties not to politicise Neha's murder, stressing the government's unwavering commitment to ensuring severe punishment for the guilty parties. "Neha's murder was an injustice, and we unequivocally condemn it. It should not be exploited for political gains," he asserted.

Modi's unfulfilled promises

Responding to criticism from Prime Minister Modi regarding the Congress manifesto's wealth redistribution plans, Siddaramaiah questioned Modi's track record of fulfilling promises, such as the infamous pledge of depositing 15 lakh rupees into each citizen's account and creating 2 crore jobs. He challenged whether Modi has effectively addressed the issue of rising essential commodity prices.

Continuation of muslim community reservation

Addressing Modi's remarks on Congress's proposed redistribution of reservation quotas to include the Muslim community, Siddaramaiah clarified that the 4% reservation for Muslims has been in place since 1994, based on the Chinnappa Reddy Commission's recommendation. He highlighted that despite challenges in the past, this reservation continues to be upheld, reaffirming the government's commitment to social justice.