Delhi L-G rejects Arvind Kejriwal's proposal to lift weekend curfew, but allows private offices to run with 50% staff

Delhi Lieutenant General Anil Baijal on Friday approved the Delhi government's proposal to allow private offices to function with 50 per cent staff but suggested that the status quo be maintained with regards to the weekend curfew and opening of markets, reported ANI.

Any decision on lifting the weekend curfew could be taken once the COVID-19 situation in Delhi improves further, officials from LG House told news agency ANI.

"Agreed to 50% attendance in private offices. But suggested that status quo be maintained with regards to weekend curfew and opening of markets and decision be taken on the subject once the COVID situation improves further," they said.

Earlier in the day, Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia said in a press conference that the Delhi government has proposed lifting weekend curfew, ending the odd-even system for opening of shops and allowing private offices to run with 50 per cent staff in the city.

The proposal approved by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has been sent to Lt Governor Anil Baijal for his consent, he said.

The decision to ease the restrictions was taken in view of declining number of Covid cases in the city and its effect on the livelihood and business activities, he said The traders in many parts of the city have demanded lifting of curbs including the opening of shops of non-essential goods on alternate days based on odd-even system.

The weekend curfew imposed because of rise in Covid cases will be in place from 10 PM Friday and continue till Monday 5 AM.

(With inputs from PTI)

Published on: Friday, January 21, 2022, 02:18 PM IST