Amid circulating rumors of a potential lockdown in India, Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri has categorically dismissed such claims, urging citizens to stay calm, responsible, and united. He stated that there is no proposal under consideration by the Indian government for imposing a lockdown.
“Rumors of a lockdown in India are completely false. Let me state this clearly: there is no such proposal under consideration by the Government of India. In these times, it is important that we remain calm, responsible, and united. Spreading rumors and creating panic is irresponsible and harmful,” Puri emphasized.
His remarks come at a time of heightened speculation fueled by global oil and gas shortages, with concerns also emerging over the supply of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), which has been described as ‘worrisome.’
Earlier this week, the Indian government explicitly rejected any rumors of a nationwide lockdown, clarifying that no plans are in place to restrict public movement or economic activities. Officials noted that recent comments by Prime Minister Narendra Modi had been widely misinterpreted.
Taking to social media platform X, Puri reassured the public, saying, “The global situation remains in flux, and we are closely monitoring developments across energy, supply chains, and essential commodities in real-time. Under the leadership of Hon’ble PM Narendra Modi Ji, all necessary steps are being taken to ensure uninterrupted availability of fuel, energy, and other critical supplies. We are fully prepared to handle emerging challenges.”
He added, “India has demonstrated resilience in the face of global uncertainties, and we will continue to act in a timely, proactive, and coordinated manner.”
The clarification follows recent parliamentary addresses by Prime Minister Modi, where references to “preparedness” were made in the context of ongoing tensions in West Asia and the potential economic impact. The timing of these rumors also coincides with the sixth anniversary of the 2020 COVID-19 lockdown, which has fueled online speculation.
The government reiterated that the mention of “COVID-like preparedness” was solely for administrative readiness and contingency planning, not an indication of imminent restrictions or mobility bans.