The Delhi government has announced that free ration will be provided to ration cardholders in the city for the next two months. The decision will benefit around 72 lakh people in the national capital. Addressing the media here, Chief Minister also announced to provide one-time financial aid autos, e-rickshaws, taxi drivers. He said that the government will transfer Rs 5,000 each into the accounts of drivers to help them to meet their needs.

“We have decided that all ration card holders in Delhi, around 72 lakhs in number, will be given free ration for the next 2 months. It doesn’t mean that the lockdown will continue for 2 months. It is just being done to help the poor going through financial issues,” the Chief Minister said.

“All autorickshaw drivers and taxi drivers in Delhi will be given Rs 5,000 each by the Delhi government so that they get a little help during this financial crisis,” Kejriwal added.

 

“Imposition of the lockdown was necessary to curb the spread of the virus. But a lockdown can create great financial difficulties for the underprivileged sections, especially the daily wage labourers,” said Kejriwal while speaking about the importance of the announced social security measures.

The Delhi government had last week said it has disbursed ex gratia payments of ₹5,000 each to construction workers registered under the Delhi Building and Other Construction Workers Welfare Board.

In a statement, the city government said a total of 2,10,684 construction workers will be granted aid under this scheme.

“At present, the Delhi government has disbursed ₹52.88 crore to 1,05,750 construction workers and in the coming days, more construction workers will be granted this ex gratia relief,” it said.

Last week, the Delhi government had announced financial assistance of Rs 5,000 for construction workers, he said.

Describing the current situation in Delhi as a “very difficult time”, the chief minister appealed to people to help each other in finding hospital beds, oxygen, medicines and provide food wherever needed.

“We are undergoing a very difficult time and the second wave has been extremely dangerous. There is so much despair and sadness all around. This is the time to become good human beings and help each other,” he said.

Kejriwal also called on all political parties to help people.