Don’t restrict goods, people’s movement: Centre tells states

In a communication to Chief Secretaries of all States and Union Territories, Union Home Secretary Ajay Bhalla said there were reports that local level restrictions on movement were being imposed by various districts and states. Drawing attention to the Unlock 3 guidelines, Bhalla said such restrictions are creating problems in inter-state movement of goods and services and are impacting supply chains, resulting in disruption in economic activity and employment.

The unlock guidelines clearly state that there shall be no restrictions on inter-state and intra-state movement of persons and goods, he said in the letter. The guidelines also stated that no separate permission, approval or e-permit will be required for movement of persons and goods for cross land border trade under treaties with neighbouring countries.

The Home Secretary said restrictions amount to violation of guidelines issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs under provisions of the Disaster Management Act, 2005. The letter requested that no restrictions be imposed and it should be ensured that the unlock guidelines are followed.