The probable emergence of the fourth wave of the Covid-19 pandemic and the reinforcement of the mask mandate and Covid protocols in several Indian states have sparked speculations on whether another episode of complete lockdown will be imposed. Though India and Tamil Nadu have recorded a remarkable vaccination rate, such speculations have become the talk of the town. Such talks were rampant in Tamil Nadu for the past few days, pushing the state government to react to them. 

There were hearsays in Tamil Nadu that claimed that the lockdown would be imposed from May 1 to battle the pandemic. After such events had stressed up the people, Tamil Nadu Health Secretary J Radhakrishnan has now affirmed that there is no chance of re-imposing the lockdown and curfew. He was asked about the possibility of imposing the lockdown in a press meeting on Tuesday during which he denied any such possibilities. 

He said, "This is not the time to make unwanted rumours. At the same time, we have curbed the spread of viral infection through masks and vaccinations. It's time that we should be reminded of that and the mask and vaccine are the measures to contain the spread in Tamil Nadu. People should adhere to the guidelines and protocols issued by the Tamil Nadu government." He asserted that there is no chance of re-imposing the curfew in the state. 

Amid being surfaced with the concerns over the fourth Covid wave, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin has held a virtual meeting with the district collectors during which he had directed them to ensure that the public follows Covid-19 protocols. He said that the government machinery should be prepared to face any kind of situation.

According to the health department, Tamil Nadu has recorded 55 fresh Covid cases, 27 discharges, and zero deaths on Monday. Overall, the state had recorded 34,53,607 cases so far as of Monday of which 362 are active, 34,15,220 were discharged, and 38,025 had succumbed to the pandemic.