Festivals are all around the corner in the country. But this time, the scenario is unfortunate which is obvious, due to coronavirus. Certain restrictions are imposed by the Centre on the states.
As India’s active caseload registered an increase, the Union Health Ministry has asked state governments to consider imposing local restrictions to prohibit gathering on festival days like Holi, Shab-e-Barat, Bihu, Easter and Eid-ul-Fitr. The Centre has urged the states to impose restrictions in public observation of these festivals and do away with mass gatherings.
The order further asserted that any laxity in ensuring strict adherence to SoPs may result in losing the impetus and benefits that India has gained so far in managing the COVID-19.
Awfully, coronavirus cases have been increasing drastically in the last two weeks. As per the data of the Union Health Ministry, India has registered over 47,262 cases and 275 deaths. With the current figures, India’s total tally has risen to 1,17,34,058 while the death toll has gone up to 1,60,441. Notably, this is the sharpest single-day spike registered in India in over 4 months. A total of 23,64,38,861 samples for COVID-19 have been tested up to March 23, 2021.
Let’s put a second thought to the scenario. Is imposing restrictions on festivals enough? What about the election rallies?
During election campaigns, mass public gathering occurs. But restrictions are never imposed on the same. The members of political parties campaign without even adhering to proper social distancing measures. This signifies the hypocrisy for not imposing restrictions on election campaigns and only validating impositions during festivities. The Election Commission has a sole responsibility to impose restrictions on election campaigns and provide strict protocols. And if any casting candidate violates such protocols, severe actions should be taken against him/her.
The situation across the globe is sensitive due to the prevailing hike in virus infection. In this contemporary situation, proper restrictions should be imposed not only during festivities but also during election campaigns.
The state governments need to be vigilant to abide by the orders and inspect if people are adhering to the SOPs and do away with public gathering. We as individuals, need to be more responsible and avoid mass gathering.
Disclaimer: This opinion is a perspective from one end, everyone might not agree with the same. We respect each other and every opinion and look forward to hear it from our viewers.
