'Follow Coronavirus Lockdown To Save Yourself, Family': PM Narendra Modi Appeals In 'Mann Ki Baat'

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday appealed to people not to violate the nationwide lockdown imposed to contain the novel coronavirus outbreak. PM Modi, in his monthly radio programme "Mann Ki Baat", apologised to people for the 'harsh steps' taken in the fight against COVID-19. PM Modi said that the lockdown was for the safety of each individual and his or her family members.

"Those who think that they are favouring others by following the lockdown is wrong, they are saving lives of themselves and their family members."

PM Modi said, "I was extremely hurt when I came to know that some people are misbehaving with those who are being advised home quarantine. We need to be sensitive and understanding."

He also stressed upon "increasing social distancing but reducing emotional distancing."

Giving examples of many countries which did not take coronavirus or COVID-19 seriously, Modi said "they are facing the brunt of it".

Prime Minister said, "The battle against COVID-19 is a tough one and it did require such harsh decisions to keep the people of India safe."

It was Modi's first "Mann Ki Baat" address to nation after he announced a 21-day lockdown in an attempt to break the chain of transmission of the COVID-19 pandemic.

PM Modi also talked to some COVID-19 patients and some health experts to share the awareness about the disease among people. (With Agency Inputs)