The Congress on Saturday asked the Centre to empower the state governments that acted as the frontline warriors in the battle against corona, demanding a special package of at least Rs 1 lakh crore for them.

Contending that the battle cannot be won without the effective execution of plans by the states, Congress spokesperson Supriya Srinate told a media conference conducted through video conferencing: “States don’t have the same instruments to mobilise funds like the Union government — monetary, fiscal and credit policies. We strongly urge the central government to announce a special economic package of at least Rs 1 lakh crore for states to combat the crisis.”

Srinate, while suggesting that the allocations to the states can be made on the basis of population and the extent of Covid-19 infections, said: “The Prime Minister has been talking about cooperative federalism. This is the time to walk the talk. The first point is to accept the critical role of the states in this battle. One-size-fits-all method won’t work. Talk to political parties, talk to state government and evolve a consensual approach. Coordination is very important.”

On measures to help the states, the Congress spokesperson said: “The Centre has delayed payment of GST compensation to states. Of the Rs 48,000 crore pending in GST compensation, only Rs 6,195 crore has been released so far. Due to the halt in economic activity, states are facing further shortage in GST revenue. Release the dues. It is also crucial for the RBI to make cheaper loans available for states. The additional 30 per cent increase in way and means advances (WMA) for state governments announced by the RBI comes at a high interest rate. This increase in borrowing limit must be made interest-free.”

She added: “The Centre must play a proactive role in inter-state supply chain management. State borders are sealed and trucks loaded with essential commodities have been left stranded. This could lead to huge shortages in coming days.” Prices of essential commodities have already soared over the past few days because of the disruption in the supply chain.

Asked about Maharashtra power minister Nitin Raut’s statement that switching off lights can affect power grid and emergency services, Srinate said: “Many experts, not only the Congress minister, have expressed concern about it. There is no need to politicise this issue as there are experts and officials in the Union power ministry who will examine this issue and act accordingly.”

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had given a call to switch off lights for nine minutes at 9 pm on Sunday and light candles and diyas (earthen lamps). Raut in a video message said: “We should rethink before switching off all the lights at the same time at our homes. This can lead to a grid failure and affect emergency services.”

He added: “Putting off the lights together at the same time can lead to a huge difference in demand and supply. Due to the lockdown, the demand has already decreased from 23,000 megawatt to 13,000 megawatt as factory units are not operating. If all lights are put off at the same time, it can lead to a potential blackout, which will also affect the emergency services. It may take up to 12-16 hours to restore services. In fight against coronavirus pandemic, electricity is an important tool.”