Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday sought forgiveness from the people who have to undergo hardship during the ongoing lockdown to combat the coronavirus spread. He also referred to reports of discrimination against coronavirus patients and those under quarantine and called for increasing emotional bonding while continuing to maintain “social distancing”.
He also asked patients who have recovered to make their fight viral on social media.
In his monthly Mann Ki Baat address, the PM said, “I ask for forgiveness from my country men especially the poor who have been asked to remain under lockdown and have to face difficulties. I understand their pain and suffering, but it is essential to fight the coronavirus pandemic.”
Modi said the measures were for the “safety of you and your families” and sought them to “respect Lakshman Rekha outside your homes”.
“I’ve told you to not to step outside... this is the time to introspect,” Modi said and cited examples where people have been using the opportunity and time to enjoy the hobbies or pursuits they had lost track of during their busy routine.
In order to know the capability with which the country is dealing with the pandemic at medical level, Prime Minister also talked to the doctors treating the patients of coronavirus, said, “Their daily activity is synchronous with that of their patients.’’
Modi also said, ‘’Today when I witness the sacrifice, perseverance and dedication on part of doctors, I am reminded of the touching words of Acharya Charak while referring to doctors. And it is so visible in doctor’s lives today.’’
“In order to ensure that India fights, does not have to face such a situation, we have to keep trying ceaselessly,’’ Prime Minister asked a doctor about some general queries related to coronavirus like, “When to call a doctor?”, “When to go for a test?”
Modi talked to several people who had contracted Covid-19 and were later cured over the phone during his Mann Ki Baat.
Modi said he spoke to several such people in the last few days to lift their morale and in the process, he learnt a lot about the respiratory disease, which has affected nearly 1,000 and killed at least 25 in the country.
Ramagampa Teja, an IT professional, was the first person to speak to the Prime Minister. Teja told Modi he was scared after he tested positive for coronavirus disease but felt reassured because of the doctors and hospital staff.
“I work in the IT sector and had gone to Dubai in connection with a job-related meeting. On my return I got a fever and after five to six days, the doctors conducted a test and I was found positive,” Teja said.
He added that he was admitted to Gandhi Hospital in Hyderabad and was discharged after 14 days. “All this was very scary,” he said.
When the Prime Minister asked about his steps after getting cured, Teja said he has followed the doctors’ instructions and kept himself under self-quarantine. Prime Minister also had a request to Teja.
“I would like you to make an audio of your experience and share it on social media. It will remove fear from people’s minds and at the same time make them aware of the necessary precautions to protect themselves,” the Prime Minister said.
Modi spoke against reports of some people seeking to discriminate those who are in self-quarantine or affected by the virus.
“It is not fair to discriminate against those under quarantine... they are taking precautions,” Modi said, addressing the nation, his first after the country-wide lockdown announced by him on March 24. The Prime Minister expressed his anguish at some cases of discrimination against those in self-quarantine or those infected by the coronavirus.
“Social distancing is not about ending social interaction... This is the time to infuse new life in your relationships.... Increase social distance but decrease emotional or human distance,” he said.
Modi said the country should take inspiration from those who are on the frontlines and who have defeated the virus.
He referred to several posts which he had received in his App which illustrating how people were spending their time during the ongoing three-week lockdown.
“Every Indian is locked for now. But we will emerge stronger after this fight against COVID-19,” Modi said. “This fight against COVID-19 is unprecedented but also challenging. In this fight, whatever steps Indians are taking, every citizen’s patience will help us. We also have to be sensitive to the needs of poor. India can do this,” he said.
On “behalf of the nation”, he also thanked all those working to provide essential services during this period of lockdown by “risking their own lives”.
The Prime Minister expressed gratitude to those who are working under these restrictions to make sure that people don’t have to face any difficulties under lockdown.
