Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma on Thursday informed the public that there was no reason for panic buying essential commodities during the lockdown period.

"Supply of essential commodities will be made available across the state during the 21-days lockdown period," Sangma assured the people.

"The purpose of social distancing and lockdown will be defeated if you do not follow the directives of the state government and the district administrations," he added.

"We have been working tirelessly to ensure that essential items and services of the government are made available to all," Sangma added.

The Chief Minister also informed that essential food items will be made available to the public by the administration in different localities.

"The timing and other necessary logistics are being worked out by the respective administration in the district level," he added.

Sangma raised concerns on the rush and overcrowding during the relaxation hours in certain markets of the state on Thursday.

Citing this rush, the Chief Minister once again appealed to the public to maintain a social distance of 1 meter and follow directives of the administration.

“During the relaxation hours, there was panic," Sangma said.

"The intention of the relaxation was to enable the public to buy essential food items," he added.

"However, the chaotic scenes of overcrowding and rush is something which is not advisable and desirable," Sangma further said.

"The state government is working for our safety, let us cooperate in this fight against Coronavirus,” Sangma reiterated.

On Thursday, people in West Garo Hills (Tura), East Garo Hills (Williamnagar) and South Garo Hills (Baghmara) thronged the market in large numbers to buy essential commodities.

A relaxation of six hours was announced in these areas.

As soon as the markets opened, chaotic scenes were witnessed and the villagers were seen violating all guidelines set by the government to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

However, the lockdown was a success in Shillong where all shops and business establishments remained closed.