Economically weak people will face no dearth of rice, assures Mamata

Kolkata: Leaving no stones unturned in ensuring food for all during the lockdown period in the state, the Mamata Banerjee government will be distributing 5 kg rice each among 20 lakh people from the economically weaker section of the society.

"It should not happen in the state that one will not get rice for not possessing ration cards," said Banerjee, directing concerned officials to look into the provisions of issuing temporary ration cards to this section of people. She was speaking at a video conference held with district authorities. Senior state government officials including Home Secretary Alapan Bandyopadhyay were also present.

"Concerned authorities should not send back a person from economically weaker section if he or she approaches for rice even if they do not have ration card. This is the time when we have to look into the aspects with humane approach. District Magistrates must take steps in this regard," Banerjee said, adding that local police also have to look into the matter and take step if anyone including the migrant labourers does not get food.

At present there are around 2 lakh migrant labourers of Bengal, who are stuck at different parts across the country. "We are in regular touch with them. Similarly, there are around 40,000 migrant labourers from other states presently staying in Bengal. All steps have been taken to support the migrant labourers," the Chief Minister said.

She once again stated that home delivery system should not get affected and directed local police to issues passes to them. In the same breath, she said that there is no record of any shortfall of medicine in the state. Banerjee added that stringent measures will be taken if anyone is caught hoarding medicine.

While speaking about Bengali New Year on April 14, she hinted at the possibility of giving a bit more relaxation on the day. But all will depend on a review meeting that will take place on April 13.

Banerjee said that the state government has so far distributed 98,000 personal protective equipments (PPE), 38,000 N95 masks, 16,000 surgical masks, 20,000 pairs of gloves, while 300 more ventilators have been ordered. She said that the state government has urged External Affairs minister S Jaishankar, who is the nodal minister for the state, to supply at least 2 lakh PPEs.

Coming down heavily on the section spreading fake news, Banerjee said that a photograph of Telangana was circulated on social media for eight long hours, stating the same to be of Bengal. Strong action will be taken against such acts, she warned.

She added that doctors should not declare that one is suffering from COVID-19, without performing necessary tests.

After a video conference with district authorities, Banerjee had a thorough discussion over the situation with senior doctors including Dr Sukumar Mukherjee, Dr Abhijit Chowdhury and Dr Bibhuti Saha. Senior doctors will be creating awareness among people every day evening, through media from the state secretariat.