THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Friday said that the COVID situation in the state was critical and that the restrictions imposed on Saturday and Sunday would be equivalent to that of a lockdown. People can go out to buy medicines and visit the nearest sick relative but they must carry an affidavit with them, the CM said. The state's test positivity rate has crossed 21 percent. Out of a total of 1,30,617 people tested, 28,447 were diagnosed with the disease on Friday. The COVID vaccine was given to 55,09,000 people in the state. The CM said that he has informed about the interventions being made by Kerala and the needs of Kerala during the Prime Minister's video conference with the Chief Ministers of various states.

No one should go out unnecessarily on Saturdays and Sundays in the state. People can attend pre-arranged weddings by adhering to COVID protocols. However, they must carry identity cards and wedding invitations with them. People are also allowed to attend funerals. However, no more than 50 people can attend the funeral.

A maximum of 75 people can participate in indoor events while a maximum of 150 people can participate in outdoor events. Programs must comply with COVID regulations. There will not be any change in Higher Secondary examinations. Train and air travelers should carry identity cards with them.

The Chief Minister also took the opportunity to lash out at the new vaccine policy of the central government. "The Centre's policy that only those with money should buy the vaccine is not correct. The price of a single dose of vaccine is Rs 400. The purchase of the required vaccine for the state will cost Rs`1300 crore. The new vaccine policy places an additional burden on states. The central government should be ready to provide free vaccines across the country. The vaccine will be free in Kerala," he said.