India, April 26 -- The government has decided not to extend the relaxation given to shops and establishments from the ongoing lockdown even after it was announced by the Central government. Amid the rising number of COVID-19 cases, Maharashtra has decided to stick to the current curbs till May 3. The Centre has issued the notification allowing standalone shops in rural and urban areas, but in the absence of a similar notification in Maharashtra, it will not come into effect. It is the prerogative of the state government to decide on the lockdown. Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray is of the opinion that lifting of restriction may further risk social distancing and lead to a rise in cases. Even if we extend the relaxation and allow stand-alone ...