Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi called on citizens to comply with the rules to prevent the COVID-19 spread, Reuters reported.

On Tuesday, several Indian cities announced their readiness to expand restrictions, as the number of new cases in the country reaches almost 20,000 daily.

“Ever since (easing of restrictions) started in the country, negligence in personal and social behaviour has been increasing,” PM Narendra Modi said in a televised address, adding that citizens were ignoring guidelines on social distancing and hand washing.

The PM also noted the extension of a scheme providing free food grains to 800 million Indians worth nearly $12 billion.