West Bengal lockdown update: restrictions extended until 20 September

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata announced on Wednesday that the state-wide lockdown that was supposed to be over by the end of August will be extended until 20 September, with complete lockdown set to be imposed on 7, 11, and 12 September. Partial lockdown will be observed on other days in a continued attempt to limit the spread of coronavirus in the country.

The chief minister explained that it wouldn't be wise to lift all restrictive measures at once amidst the rising Covid-19 cases in some areas. "Given the present situation, it will not be right to immediately withdraw the lockdown. The decision has been taken based on the prevailing situation. There are a few places where cases are still rising. These are in Bengal but I have been appraised of this situation. Hence, lockdown will continue and status quo will be maintained regarding the existing rules," she said.

She also mentioned that the decision of implementing a 48-hour lockdown on 3-4 September was set to be made but was eventually ruled off as many entrance exams are scheduled around that period.

On their side, Kolkata police tweeted that only candidates taking exams will be allowed to travel on days when the lockdown is implemented, as "it will be on a case-to-case basis" affirming that candidates should carry the admit cards issued and all the necessary documents.

A senior police officer also suggested that examinees can write on the windshield of their cars "on exam duty" stating that admit cards will function as their passes during lockdown days.