THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The nationwide lockdown should continue partially until May 15, CM Vinayan told PM Modi. The chief minister's demand came before the PM's video conference with chief ministers.

While lifting lockdown, decisions should be made carefully and in accordance with the specialty of states. Partial lockdown should continue until May 15. Further actions should be taken after considering the situation, CM told the centre.

Union home minister has earlier told that the PM's video conference on Monday would be with the chief ministers of smaller states. So Kerala was asked to put forward their demands prior to the conference.

Lifting of lockdown could be implemented in districts without COVID-19 positive cases by avoiding gatherings and public transport. People should maintain social distance. Inter-state, inter-district travel should be restricted until May 15. The number of candidates for virus testing is on the rise. In this situation, there is also a rise in the demand for PPE kits. The union government should take over the responsibility to distribute these, the CM told the centre.

The chief minister also urged the government to cover the flight expenses of returning expats with a small income, those staying in jail and camps. He also asked the government to announce a rehabilitation package.