New Delhi, Apr 14 (IANS): The RSS hailed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's call for extension of the ongoing shutdown on Tuesday. RSS Sah Sar-Karyavah Krishna Gopal also appreciated PM Modi for invoking Ambedkar during a video conference to make a case for a united fight against coronavirus.

"Today, I urge all Indians to be empathetic in this hour of crisis. That will be the ideal way to show respect to Ambedkar. Please be mindful of those in your vicinity who may be hungry. I urge you to feed them. There are many employers who too may be going through a tough time. But as PM Modi said and as Babasaheb Ambedkar himself would want, treat your employees with empathy," said the RSS functionary.

He also highlighted the importance of war against coronavirus, which he claimed can be defeated only if India fights as one.

Earlier in the day, calling it an "Agni pariksha", the Prime Minister said India has fared better because of the ongoing shutdown that was scheduled to end on Tuesday night but now stands extended.

Modi said there is no alternative to strict adherence to social distancing norms which can be attained through staying indoors. He had invoked Ambedkar, Tuesday being his birthday and the iconic phrase of the Indian Constitution he wrote - "We the people" to stress that it's a common fight and needs to be won together.