Rio seeks citizens’ support in Covid-19 battle

Appeals people across the country to do away with stigmatisation, racial profiling and discrimination

Our Correspondent

Kohima, March 23 (EMN): Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio has sought co-operation from the people of Nagaland in adhering to all the measures introduced by the state government to prevent and contain the spread of novel coronavirus (Covid-19). 

He was addressing the citizens of the state on the issue and prevention of the coronavirus pandemic at his office in Kohima on Monday.

The chief minister said that the coronavirus pandemic is presently sweeping the world. Fortunately, there are no confirmed cases of anyone being affected by the virus till date in Nagaland. However, he cautioned the people not to be "complacent or to lower our guard".

Rio assured that the Health department is working tirelessly to provide care and requisite medical assistance to anyone "who may, unfortunately, get infected”.

"Our Medical department and all the health personnel are working day in and day out, taking measures to prevent the spread of the virus," he said.

Rio informed that the state government has issued many instructions like restricting public movement and closure of public places and other such containment measures for prevention of the spread of coronavirus.

The chief minister appreciated the people's enthusiasm in cooperating with the government while seeking their continued support in defeating "the threat posed by the novel coronavirus".

He reminded the citizens to adopt the best practice of personal hygiene and social distancing as recommended by the health authorities as a step of prevention against the pandemic.

He also urged the public to be vigilant and help the authorities in preventing 'rumours and fake news' from being spread. "Your alertness and co-operation at this stage can help us in preventing the virus from reaching us," he said. 

Rio also appealed to all sections across the country to be sensitive to all communities and to do away with stigmatisation, racial profiling and discrimination, as "India must move forward as one nation".

Further, he asked people not to panic but be alert to ensure that "our near and dear ones do not catch the infection".

He stated that the coming few weeks would be "absolutely crucial" in the fight against Covid-19 while assuring that with the active co-operation of every citizen, the state can overcome "this difficult time".