CHANDIGARH: Expressing serious concern over a spike in Covid-19 cases and deaths in the state, Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Monday said he was not averse to imposing harsher measures to check further spread of the invisible pandemic. Though Singh did not rule out a fresh lockdown, especially in areas witnessing a surge in cases, he made it clear that economic activities would not be allowed to suffer. During the virtual conference meeting of the cabinet, which reviewed the Covid-19 situation, the Chief Minister, in response to a suggestion from Expert Health Advisory Committee chairman Dr K.K. Talwar, said, if needed, the state government would consider going in for strong measures to combat the deadly coronavirus. Montek Singh Ahluwalia, who is heading the expert group for the revival of the state’s economy, also said any measures to check Covid-19 spread should not impact economic activities. Montek also reiterated that there was no suggestion made on the withdrawal of free power to farmers, as was being projected by a section of the media. He clarified this on the Chief Minister’s remarks that a lot of misinformation was being spread on this count. Montek said that the group was in favour of diversification to reduce dependence on paddy, and wanted Punjab to spend 20% more per year, for the next 5 years, on the development of public health infrastructure. The Chief Minister said the Montek group’s recommendations would be circulated to all ministers and a detailed discussion will be held thereafter on the issue.
