ISLAMABAD – Minister for Interior Sheikh Rashid Ahmed on Saturday said that the third wave of coronavirus was too lethal so everyone should take care and follow Standard Operating procedure (SOPs) properly. He warned that it is possible the government may impose strict restrictions and smart lockdowns in the coming days; however, decision makers will also need to assess the impact of such a decision on the poor and working classes. Following social media reports about a possible nationwide lockdown, Rashid later issued a video statement to clarify the situation. “I did not say at all that a lockdown will begin on Monday. False reports attributed to me have been circulating,” he said. He said that he had responded to various channels stating that on Monday, in coronavirus hotspots, the NCOC “may consider smart lockdowns.” “I did not speak of a complete, nationwide lockdown at all. So I wish to say to everyone, this is a false report being circulated,” Rashid said. He added that the decision, in any case, will be taken by the NCOC and does not fall under the purview of the interior ministry.
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