New Delhi: Union Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri has said the Union government is not considering any plan to impose a nationwide lockdown similar to the one during the COVID-19 period.
His clarification comes amid heightened tensions in West Asia, with reports of joint US-Israel strikes on Iran and retaliatory attacks by Iran on US positions in the region. Iran has also reportedly restricted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a key route that meets around 20% of global fuel demand.
With concerns rising over possible shortages of cooking gas, petrol and diesel worldwide, rumours began circulating that India could announce a countrywide lockdown. The minister said these claims are completely baseless.
In a statement, Puri urged people to remain calm, responsible and united. He said the Centre is taking all steps to ensure energy and fuel distribution continues without disruption and that the government is prepared to face any emerging challenges.
Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman also stated that there is no possibility of a lockdown being imposed.
