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The Indian government says there is evidence of a link between the variant and India’s deadly second wave, but that the correlation is not yet “fully established”.
Several states have imposed localised lockdowns, curfews and curbs on movement over the last month.
However, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government is coming under increasing pressure to announce a nationwide lockdown and stop the spread of the virus.
He is also facing criticism for allowing massive gatherings at Hindu festivals and election rallies to go ahead despite rising cases.
