Stay inside on Mahavir, Hanuman Jayanti, Shab-e-Barat: Ajit

Mumbai, Apr 4 () Maharashtra Deputy Chief MinisterAjit Pawar on Saturday appealed people to celebrate Mahavirand Hanuman Jayanti and observe Shab-e-Barat next week bystaying inside home in view of the coronavirus pandemic.

Mahavir Jayanti will be celebrated on Monday whileHanuman Jayanti and Shab-e-Barat fall on Wednesday.

"People should not step out of home on the occasion ofMahavir Jayanti, Hanuman Jayanti and Shab-e-Barat. Offerworship and prayers staying inside home," Pawar said in astatement.

He noted that the number of COVID-19 patients in thestate was increasing.

The number of coronavirus cases in Maharashtra crossed500 on Saturday.

Doctors, police and municipal employees weredischarging their duties by risking their lives, Pawar said.

"The majority of people are staying inside home. Butthis fight against coronavirus receives setback due to fewpeople who are roaming on streets," the NCP leader said.

This was a "battle for existence", Pawar said, warningof strict action against violation of lockdown rules.

Battle against the pandemic can be won only by holding"scientific and humanitarian views", the deputy chief ministeradded. ENMKRK KRK