Madhya Pradesh Home Minister Narottam Mishra here on Thursday backtracked accepting his mistake of not wearing a mask in public appearances, expressing regret on his action. A day ago, during his visit to Indore, the Home Minister was seen not wearing a mask despite the fact the city is a hotbed of Covid-19 virus and is reporting over 400 cases of infections in last few days.
As the media enquired from him about not wearing the mask, the Minister casually said he never wears a mask in any function. The Minister had attended the function of municipal corporation without a mask. It’s notable that municipal employees are penalising commoners without masks in Indore city with Rs 200 fine.
By evening on Wednesday, the Minister had claimed that he suffers from breathing issues so he avoids mask. However, soon after his remarks went viral inviting massive criticism from people from different spectra slammed him for violating the safety norm at a time when the country is battling the fatal virus. The Minister is constantly being attacked by Congress party for not wearing mask and even when the Minister held charge of Health ministry months ago, he made it a point never to use masks.
Mishra however on Thursday backtracked after public bashing and accepted his mistake. “My statement over wearing a mask appears to be a violation of law. It wasn’t in line with sentiment of the PM. I accept my mistake and express regret. I’ll wear mask. I also appeal to everyone to wear mask and observe social distancing”, the Minister said.