Bengaluru: The top court, hearing a case on migrants getting back to their villages in the wake of the lockdown, was informed by the centre that is doing all it can to save the rural population from the pandemic. 

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta said in the court, “The government is doing all that it can to save the rural population from the pandemic. We have sent an advisory to all States to put a complete ban on any interstate travel. I am told that there are no more migrants on the roads. Anyone being found is being taken to the nearest shelters. 6 lakh 63 thousand people have been provided shelter so far and over 22 lakh are being provided food on a daily basis.” 

In terms of laboratories being set up, he said, “When the virus was first detected, we had one testing laboratory in Pune. From there, we have come to 118 fully-functioning laboratories all over the country with a capacity of 15000 patients every day.”

CJI Arvind Bobde expressed his displeasure over fake news being spread. 

He questioned the SG in this regard. 

“Are there any provisions under which the government can take action and punish people spreading fake news on the crisis?” asked the CJI. 

SC gives directions: 

An expert committee is to be set up within 24 hours to answer the queries and concerns of the citizens. This committee will hold regular press briefings and answer citizen questions. A panel is also to be set up by the government to deal with the issue of the spread of fake news on social media websites and through instant messaging platforms.

Along with this, a portal also has to be set up by the government within 24 hours to answer common questions on the COVID-19 virus. It is also the responsibility of the government to take care of the migrant workers in shelter homes. Government ought to provide them with food, shelter, nourishment and medical aid for all the migrant workers, as reported by Republic TV.