"Corona-Carriers": Haryana Minister's Shocker In Appeal To Arvind Kejriwal

Nearly a month into a nationwide lockdown over coronavirus that restricts movement between the states, Haryana Health Minister Anil Vij has asked Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal to arrange accommodation for the people from the state who are working in the national capital and commute every day. "They have become Corona-carriers," he said.

"Earlier several members of the Islamic sect Tablighi Jamaat arrived from Delhi and 120 of them tested positive. Haryana ensured their treatment. Now, a lot of people who work in Delhi but stay in Haryana are commuting using passes. They have become Corona-carriers," the 67-year-old state minister told news agency ANI.

"In Sonepat, nearly nine patients have been reported who got infected in Delhi. In Panipat, a police officer - the sister of a cop working with Delhi Police - got infected from him... then the whole family contracted COVID-19. We had to initiate quarantine efforts at Samalkha Police Station where she was working. So, I appeal to Delhi Chief Minster Arvind Kejriwal to arrange accommodation for those working in the national capital," Mr Vij said.

"They should not be sent to Haryana by giving them passes. This is leading to an increase in the number of cases here. Borders are sealed, most people are not allowed but those with passes can enter," he added.

A nationwide lockdown to check the spread of the highly contagious illness began on March 25; it was later extended till May 3. Transport services are shut and people are not allowed to travel unless they secure permission from the authorities concerned.

Four cities in Haryana - Gurgaon, Faridabad, Jhajjar and Sonepat - share border with the national capital that has reported nearly 3,000 COVID-19 cases so far. Haryana has recorded nearly 280 cases, including three deaths.

Across India, more than 27,000 cases have been reported, over 800 have died.

(With inputs from ANI)