One of the toughest, perhaps the toughest, decisions the incumbent BJP-led NDA government has made in the past six years since it came to power was the relaxation of nationwide lockdown which began in March in an attempt to contain the novel coronavirus (Covid-19) transmission. It was obvious that the number of Covid-19 cases could spiral by the move. The fear came true with coronavirus cases in the countries witnessing a sharp spike, crossing 1.5 lakh-mark within few days. The north-eastern states, that once earned the praises of Indian leaders for successfully controlling the spread of the deadly disease into the region, witnessed a huge spike in the past few days after the relaxation of inter-state movement and introduction of Shramik special trains to ferry stranded citizens to their respective states. Nagaland, the lone state in India that didn’t report even a single case till May 24, today has 18 active cases and the number may increase over the next few days with several test results awaited and more stranded citizens expected to arrive in the state by rail, road and flight. Lockdown relaxation was a necessary evil and a calculated risk that no government would want to take but ground situation demanded such a risky move. Some world leaders faced the brickbats while others praises but all had to take a stand in the fight against this pandemic while trying to avoid a possible humanitarian crisis and breakdown of economy. The disease has taken a huge toll even on most developed countries that boast of efficient healthcare system as they could not afford to undermine the economic life of the people.
For India, relaxation of lockdown was inevitable not only for economic reasons but also as thousands of migrants were caught off guard due to the sudden nationwide lockdown. Allowing inter-state movement was the only way to let stranded people reach their respective states. Indian government had to take the tough decision despite objections from several states and the possible risks involved. Respective state governments too had to take action, including trial and error as the crisis was unprecedented and something that none have faced. In the process, wrong policies and decisions as well as faulty implementation from the part of various departments and officials are likely. So, it is important for public leaders and common people alike to be vigilant and tell the government and concerned authorities about the flaws. It is also equally important for the government to pay heed to genuine concerns of the people and take corrective measures before catastrophe strikes. However, we shouldn’t let emotions take the better of us during a crisis of this magnitude because it can cause irreparable damage to the social fabric that holds our society together besides health concerns. We should leave all differences aside and demonstrate exemplary effort in the fight against the common enemy, Covid-19. The governments, both Centre and state, should also take positive criticisms with both hands and quickly rectify the wrongs. The battle is going to be long. Societies that stay together will come out victorious at the end of the day.
