Bhatkal: Uttara Kannada District In-Charge Minister Shivram Hebbar on Thursday made a visit to Bhatkal to take stock of arrangements undertaken for strict implementation of the lockdown norms called in the wake of COVID-19 in the nation.

Speaking to presspersons on this occasion, Minister Shivram Hebbar said, a socio-political organization of Bhatkal, Majlise Islah Wa Tanzeem had demanded to permit for the relaxation of two to three hours per day in the lockdown norms in wake of holy month Ramazan. But there is a question of life and death for the people here, so no relaxation will be allowed in the government orders till May 3. "This time God has instructed us to worship and celebrate in houses, which we need to follow accordingly", he said.

He further said that this rule does not apply to one particular religion or community, but applies equally to all. After studying the situations in the district as well as in the state, the decision will be taken by the government in this regard in future. At the same time, it will be considered whether to give relaxation to certain areas or not.

Hebbar said that discussion is underway to allow resuming the operation of farming, fishing, agriculture-based businesses, puncture shops, TV repair shops, garages, etc. Regarding fisheries, it will be decided to permit for more relaxation after consulting with the three MLAs of the district and the Zilla Panchayat president. Until 3rd May, the district administration will look after with its appropriate decision on those leaving or entering the district. No pressure should be exerted on the officers by anybody in this regard, he noted.

The Minister also lauded the efforts of the District administration, Police officers, Doctors, Nurses and those who are working hard for the prevention of this epidemic and called upon the people to cooperate fully with these officers and staff.

The Minister also directed the Taluka administration to compensate the people who have been affected by the unseasonal rains in the district within 48 hours.

On this occasion ZP President Jayashri Moger, Bhatkal MLA Sunil Naik, Uttara Kannada Deputy Commissioner Dr K Harish Kumar, ZP CEO Mohammed Roshan, DySP Gautham and many others were present.