NCC to decide about relaxation in lockdown restriction today

ISLAMABAD: A meeting of the National Coordination Committee (NCC) will be held in Islamabad on Wednesday (today) to take a decision regarding relaxation in lockdown after May 9.

The federal cabinet had decided to ease lockdown restrictions but decided to leave the final matter to the NCC to devise the further course of action. All four chief ministers will attend the meeting to deliberate on the next strategy.

Yesterday, Information Minister Shibli Faraz briefing media about decisions made in the cabinet meeting. He said relaxation in lockdown will still require to take safety precautions. He said the war against coronavirus pandemic can be won only by staying at home and avoid unecessary movement.

The minister said the cabinet decided to donate its one month salary to Prime Minister’s Relief Fund for COVID-19 in view of the prevailing situation and difficulties faced by the people. The cabinet also allowed export of hand sanitizers made in the country to earn foreign exchange.

Shibli Faraz said the prime minister directed the law ministry to prepare a report on holding of elections transparently. desired that the election process should be transparent, unbiased and also enjoy the trust of the masses.

The law minister for law and justice was tasked to finalise the reformation process in the criminal justice system within six months, while the Ministry of Interior was directed to take steps to improve the situation of police stations.

Shibli Faraz said the cabinet deliberated on banning import of goods from India, except life-saving drugs. He said the prime minister directed to make sure that there is no violation of this ban. The meeting also approved the reconstitution of National Commission for Minorities.