New Delhi: There were no restrictions on either Inter-State or Intra-State movement of people or goods said Ministry of Home affairs in a letter to all states and UTs on Saturday. The Union Home Secretary wrote to the governments of all states and union territories on Saturday, reminding them that under central guidelines for “Unlock3”, or the third phase of easing of the Covid-19 lockdown.

The Home Ministry in its letter also notes that these restrictions were adversely impacting supply chains and thereby disrupting economic activity and employment. There are reports of such restrictions being imposed by district-level officials in a number of states. Home Secretary Ajay Kumar Bhalla said no separate permission or e-permit was required for movement of persons or goods, referring to paragraph five of the guidelines.

In his letter, Home Secretary Bhalla also cautioned state governments that the continued imposition of such restrictions would be viewed as violation of Union Home Ministry guidelines issued under relevant provisions of the Disaster Management Act, 2005. He also urged all states and UTs to remove movement restrictions, if any, and ensure that Home Ministry guidelines are followed.

The resumption of cross-border movement initially caused much chaos as people and commercial operators were left unsure over the rules, permission (if any) that was required and quarantine or self-isolation measures at the destination. There have been three “Unlock” phases since, with the current one set to end on August 31.The easing of the restrictions (the degree to which many will be eased has been left to the discretion of local governments) came amid repeated warnings over the condition of the Indian economy, which stuttered alarmingly during the lockdown.