In an important direction aimed at ensuring smooth functioning of supply chains vital for the economy, the home ministry asked states to ensure unhindered movement of inter-state and intra-state movement of persons and goods in accordance with ‘Unlock 3’ guidelines issued by it on July 29 and applicable countrywide till August 31. The Centre has said such curbs are a violation of ministry of home affairs guidelines.
Drawing attention to the norms, home secretary Ajay Bhalla in a communication to all state chief secretaries said they clearly stipulate that no separate “permission/approval/e-permit” will be required for such movements, including the movement of persons and goods for cross land border trade under treaties with neighboring countries. The latter reference is relevant in the context of West Bengal government imposing curbs on movement of goods into Bangladesh.
Several states continue to impose restrictions on movement of goods and even state and private transport like buses in view of Covid situations in some parts of their jurisdictions. This has been seen as a problem for supply chains and has affected availability at the retail end. It is seen as disruptive of efforts to get the economy moving after having ground to a halt during the three phases of the lockdown.
“It has, however, been reported that local level restrictions on movement are being imposed by various districts/states. Such restrictions are creating problems in inter-state movement of goods and services and are impacting the supply chain resulting in disruption of economic activities and employment, besides affecting supply of goods and services,” Bhalla stated.
