New Delhi: The Union Government has firmly dismissed rumours about a possible nationwide lockdown in India, with Union Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri clarifying that no such proposal is under consideration.
Addressing the speculation on Thursday, Puri stated that the government is not planning any lockdown, urging citizens to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified information during a sensitive global situation.
He emphasised that circulating rumours during a period of international uncertainty is “irresponsible and harmful.”
Government Monitoring Global Situation
In a post on social media platform X, the minister said the government is closely monitoring global developments, particularly those affecting energy supplies, essential commodities, and international supply chains.
Puri noted that the government is taking all necessary steps to ensure uninterrupted availability of fuel, energy, and other critical resources for citizens.
He added that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, authorities are prepared to respond swiftly to any emerging challenges.
“India has consistently demonstrated resilience in the face of global uncertainties, and we will continue to act in a timely, proactive, and coordinated manner,” Puri said.
Rumours Follow Fuel Tax Cut and Global Tensions
The clarification came shortly after the Centre reduced excise duties on petrol and diesel, a move aimed at cushioning the impact of global energy supply disruptions triggered by the ongoing Iran–US conflict.
The geopolitical tensions and concerns over oil supply routes have contributed to heightened public speculation about possible emergency measures.
Speculation Triggered by PM Modi’s Parliament Speech
Rumours about a potential lockdown also gained traction after Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent address in Parliament, where he spoke about the ongoing crisis in West Asia.
Several social media posts interpreted the speech as a signal that a lockdown might be imposed, leading to trending searches such as “Is lockdown coming back to India” and “India lockdown news.”
However, government sources clarified that the Prime Minister never mentioned the possibility of a lockdown during his address.
Reference to COVID-19 Pandemic
During the speech, Modi referred to the COVID-19 pandemic period only as an example of how India handled a global crisis.
He urged citizens to remain prepared and united, similar to the collective response seen during the pandemic, but did not suggest any restrictions or shutdown measures.
Government Urges Public to Avoid Rumours
Officials have urged people to rely on official government communication and avoid spreading misinformation, stressing that India remains fully prepared to manage global uncertainties without imposing drastic measures like a nationwide lockdown.
