Over 21K migrant relief camps shelter 6.66 lakh people: MHA

Govt panel to probe violations by Rajiv Gandhi Foundation

New Delhi: The Ministry of Home Affairs on Tuesday said that over 6.66 lakh people have been shifted in a total of 21,064 migrant relief camps across India amid the coronavirus crisis.

The Ministry said over 23 lakh additional people are being provided food to the poor and others in need in various states and Union Territories (UTs).

As per the Ministry, it has been continuously monitoring the enforcement of lockdown measures across all states and UTs, asserting that the enforcement is “satisfactory” and that the supplies of essential items are also smooth.

“A total of 21,064 migrant relief camps have been set up in the states and UTs in which 6,66,291 people have been provided shelter facilities,” said Punya Salila Srivastava, Joint Secretary in the Home Ministry.

Besides, 23 lakh people have been provided food facility, the official said, adding these facilities are being provided to the poor, destitutes, migrant workers, those who only need food, and for those who have reached their destination, but have been quarantined due to standard health protocol.

Addressing media in a joint briefing here, Srivastava asserted that the condition of migrant workers is “under control”. She said interstate cargo movement is permitted and running smoothly and the governments of the states and UTs take action when they detect any problem.