Karnataka Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai has hinted that COVID-19 restrictions in the state may be relaxed soon. Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, January 19, the CM stated that after consulting with experts, a decision on lifting weekend curbs and night curfews will be made on Friday. "The number of COVID-19 cases has increased, but hospitals are not overburdened." We must prioritise the improvement of out-patient department (OPD) facilities. All of this will be discussed with the expert committee, according to CM Bommai.

He also stated that the committee has been asked to investigate the people's demands and that they are analysing the COVID-19 situation in the state. "The experts' meeting on Friday will provide us with a complete picture. The experts' recommendations would be followed in making a decision "He stated. "It is our responsibility to save lives, and strict measures are being implemented with this in mind," he said.In response to a question about why there is talk about loosening restrictions at a time when cases are expected to spike, he said, "The general consensus is that it (COVID-19infection) is similar to the flu, and there isn't much hospitalisation, so day-to-day activities can be allowed by adhering to COVID rules. Experts are looking into it, and they will present their findings to us on Friday. After that, we'll make a decision."Due to an increase in cases, the Karnataka government decided last week to extend the existing COVID-19 curbs, such as night curfews and weekend curfews, until the end of January. During the press conference, the Chief Minister also stated that he had recovered from COVID-19 infection after being infected and quarantined at home.