Must observe 'Janta Curfew' to 'break chain' of coronavirus: JD(U) leader

Speaking to ETV Bharat, Janata Dal (United) leader Sunil Kumar Pintu appealed the general public to observe "Janta Curfew" on March 22, as suggested by PM Modi to "break the chain of coronavirus".

New Delhi: While extending support to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's call for a "Janta Curfew" on March 22 as a measure to fight the coronavirus pandemic, Janata Dal (United) leader Sunil Kumar Pintu said that the move will help "break the chain of coronavirus".

"Through your channel I would like to request the citizens of the country, especially the residents of Bihar, to observe 'Janta Curfew' from 7 am to 9 pm on March 22, as suggested by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and echoed by Bihar Chief Minister and Janata Dal (United) chief Nitish Kumar. We need to break the chain of coronavirus, " Pintu told ETV Bharat.

The Lok Sabha MP added, "Since the virus only remains active for 10-12 hours if we isolate ourselves for 14 hours the chances of us contracting the virus will reduce."

He further appealed the general public to clap their hands at 5 pm on Sunday evening as a mark of respect for those performing their daily duties at the time of COVID-19 outbreak.

"We must all listen to what PM Modi has said. At 5 pm in the evening we must all clap for the selfless service by doctors, media persons, airport officials, among others, to acknowledge their efforts and motive them further, " said Pintu.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday addressed the nation after the global outbreak of coronavirus. The live telecast lasted for 30 minutes and was an attempt to curb the atmosphere of fear in the country as well as acted as a call for participation from all citizens.

Among the highlights, was a call for a 'Janata Curfew' and reassurance that supply line for essentials will remain open.

As many as 223 positive cases of COVID-19 were reported from India till 6 pm on March 20.