Even as Assam on Saturday decided to open the inter-state borders with all the North Eastern states from May 3, Nagaland chief secretary Temjen Toy said that the state borders will continue to remain sealed.
He said that though Assam had contacted Nagaland to inform that it was opening the borders, Nagaland borders will continue to remain sealed. It was also learnt that Manipur has decided to open its borders.
Talking to Nagaland Post, Toy however said that there can be some relaxations for those coming from green and orange zones. But those from red zones cannot enter the state, he asserted.
He said that people from green zones can be allowed, but it does not mean that the borders are open. For those from orange zones, Toy said the government was working out the modalities.
Toy also informed that those wanting to go out can do so, but after following protocols. He pointed out that the state cannot allow mass exodus of stranded people now, as the government was still working out means to handle the issue.
With regard to inter-district border, he said that since Nagaland falls under green zone, there should be no problem for people to travel. There could be instances where people may have problems to travel to other districts, this should not happen, said Toy, adding the government will address the issue.
Meanwhile, Assam health minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma Saturday said that the borders with all North Eastern states except Sikkim will open from May 3 to allow stranded people from Assam to return.
No pass is required for people travelling from these states, he added. Sarma also said that all returnees will be screened at the inter-state borders for any COVID-19 symptoms.
Lockdown norms to remain in force
State government has notified that all the existing guidelines with regard to the lockdown in all parts of the state would continue to remain operative till the issuance of fresh guidelines. This was stated in an order issued by chief secretary Temjen Toy.
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