India’s coronavirus cases hit a global record with 4,01,993 fresh infections in the last 24 hours. 3,523 deaths were reported. The country – hit by a deadly second wave – logged 1 lakh cases in a day for the first time about three weeks ago.
The Supreme Court on Friday warned action against states for clampdown on information or citizens sharing grievances on social media. “If citizens communicate their grievances on social media, we do not want clampdown on information. We will treat this as contempt if any citizen is harassed if they want bed or oxygen,” Justice DY Chandrachud said during a hearing.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday held a meeting with council of ministers. “Discussed the various steps being undertaken including coordination with the states, augmenting medical capacities and boosting oxygen availability,” the Prime Minister said after the meeting.
The United States and Australia have restricted travel from India amid Covid surge. Australia has even warned of a five-year jail term for those defying the new rule.The government on Friday granted emergency financial powers to armed forces to augment their efforts in the battle against COVID-19. These new powers will help them operate facilities, procure equipment and resources, and perform any required urgent tasks.Several nations, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Ireland,China, Japan, have pledged sustained support to India as hospitals in the country scramble for resources.
Many experts have attributed the spike in cases to the mega Kumbh mela that ended Friday. Over 70 lakh people took part in the religious festival, government data has showed.