Tribune news service
Shimla, December 4
Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur today ruled out that Covid testing is mandatory for anyone entering the state from abroad, as suggested by the HP High Court in its order.
“We respect the recommendations of the court, but I am of the opinion that we have passed that stage where border restrictions could prevent transmission. Now, the virus has spread and making the test mandatory at this stage will be useless, “he explained.
The state government has received severe criticism following the court’s observations that are a clear reflection of the situation regarding the handling of Covid. He said that the Superior Court’s suggestions were being considered and that the practical and feasible recommendations would be implemented. The objective was the global improvement of the facilities for the management of Covid. “I have told the Chief Secretary to examine the suggestions made by the court and then I will review the situation,” said the Chief Minister.
‘The tests increased three times’
The government has made difficult decisions, which are being implemented in letter and spirit. It is also a fact that we have improved our tests almost three times and that is also probably another reason for the increase. —Jai Ram Thakur, Chief Minister
On the management of Covid, he said that all the best that the government could do had been done. “The court, in its order, has clearly observed that even the general public acted irresponsibly, resulting in increased broadcasting. We too have reiterated over and over again that callous behavior during marriages resulted in the increase, a fact also noted by the court, ”he said.
Thakur said that the government has now made difficult decisions, which are being implemented in letter and spirit. “It is also a fact that we have improved our tests almost three times and that is also probably another reason for the increase. There are some states that have reduced testing, ”he said.
He said that senior doctors had been visiting Covid wards regularly and there was no oxygen shortage, as wrongly reported.
Regarding the Panchayati Raj elections, the Chief Minister said that the elections would be ordered by the Election Commission and that the government only had to facilitate and make arrangements. It is declared, ”he said.
The Chief Minister said that in case the Covid situation did not improve, there would be no celebrations for the BJP regime that completes three years on December 27. “The function will be simple and the option to hold a virtual event also rests with the government,” Thakur said.
