Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his nationwide televised address this week has asked the entire nation to observe a `Janata Curfew’ on Sunday, the March 22, from 7 am to 9 pm. No citizen barring those providing essential services, should leave their houses. In his address to the nation, the Prime Minister further said that this would serve as a litmus test to show how well India is prepared to take on the challenge posed by the coronavirus pandemic. This experience will serve the nation well.
“During this curfew we will neither leave our homes nor get onto the streets and refrain from roaming about in the society.
Modi has also asked people to express gratitude to our health workers by giving them a five minute standing ovation at 5 pm on Sunday. This could be by clapping your hands, beating plates or ringing bells.
He further said in his address, “Complacency in respect of this pandemic is not correct. It is important that each and every citizen remains alert and takes utmost care. Studies from other countries have revealed that from a few cases, the pandemic has exploded at a very rapid pace.”
A cure or vaccine for the coronavirus has not been found yet. Even developed countries have been badly hit by the disease. A few countries have controlled the situation by taking quick decisions. He said, “Remember, we have a population of 1.3 billion and is a developing country. It is essential to keep two key factors in mind in order to combat this pandemic. It is resolve and restraint.”
“I appeal to all of you to try and do all your work from home only if absolutely necessary venture out. It is critical that in this difficult time, humanity emerges victorious and India too emerges victorious.”
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has also issued an advisory that there would be no international flights allowed to enter India from March 22 to one week. The government has also asked private sector to work from home as far as possible.
Meanwhile, there has been a sudden spike in Australia in coronavirus cases. The tally now stands at 1000 infected people. It is only now that the government has put a travel ban there. Iran’s death toll from the outbreak has risen by over 100 to 1,556. It is exactly this kind of a situation that our country is trying to avoid.
The participation of citizens is very important to combat this challenge. The 3-4 weeks are very crucial, as we cannot rule out community spread or a ripple effect of the virus.
Maybe, post this March 22 junta curfew practice, we can sail through the next few weeks with less pain.
Take care and self isolate is what we say !