'States cannot restrict inter-state & intra-state movement of persons and goods': MHA

Guwahati: Drawing attention to paragraph 5 of the Unlock 3 guidelines of the Centre, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) today stated that "there shall be no restrictions on inter-state & intra-state movement of persons and goods ."

Ajay Bhalla, Union Home Secretary, writing to the Chief Secretaries of the States, drew their attention to paragraph 5 of the Unlock 3.0 guidelines which state that "there shall be no restrictions on Inter-State and Intra-State movement of persons and goods. No separate permission/approval/e-permit will be required for such movements."

It has, however, been reported that local level restrictions on movement are being imposed by various districts/states in apparent violation of the MHA's guidelines, said Bhalla.

"Such restrictions are creating problems in inter-state movement of goods and services and are impacting the supply chain", Bhalla said, adding that it is resulting in disruption of economic activities and employment, besides affecting the supply of goods and services.

He further added that such restrictions at the local level "amount to a violation of the guidelines issued by the MHA under the provisions of the Disaster Management Act, 2005..

Bhalla urged the states not to impose such restrictions to "ensure that MHA guidelines mentioned above are strictly followed."

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) had recently issued new guidelines as part of the Centre's Unlock 3.0 measures which came into effect on August 1.

Yoga institutes and gymnasiums were allowed to open from August 5 as per the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP).

Educational institutes, cinema halls and metro trains will, however, remain closed, the MHA said in its order.

The guidelines issued by the MHA said schools, colleges and coaching institutions will remain closed till August 31.

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