Social distancing ignored at Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan’s event

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, March 21

The social distancing norms went for a toss during the inauguration of the help desk for Covid-19 vaccination at Dadu Majra’s health and wellness centre by Union Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan. A large number of BJP workers, healthcare workers of the civil dispensary and media personnel gathered at the site ahead of the Health Minister’s visit.

Minister shown black flags

Congress workers, who had gathered outside the wellness centre at Dadu Majra to protest the visit of the Union Health Minister, were allegedly detained by the police when they showed black flags to Dr Harsh Vardhan. “About 14 Congressmen were detained and taken away in a bus. They were released later on,” said Congress leader Harmail Kesari. The Congress workers were protesting over the dumping ground in Dadu Majra.

As soon as Harsh Vardhan reached the centre, Congress workers, who had also gathered at the venue, “created ruckus” and there was violation of the social distancing norms.

“The event was announced a day before in the newspapers so enthusiastic residents and young members of the BJP gathered at the centre. The Congress workers created ruckus outside the venue, which is uncalled for,” said Arun Sood, president of the city BJP unit. Sood said the help desk at Dadu Majra’s health and wellness centre would serve towards the wellbeing of city residents.

“The local workers of the party are helping the needy in getting vaccinated. Our workers are helping elderly with registration and bringing them to vaccination centres,” said Sood.

City residents though felt that the organisers of events need to be more responsible.

“The current rising trend in Covid-19 cases tells us that Chandigarh has been pushed back by six months in its fight against the pandemic. The organisers and hosts of functions and events need to be more cautious. They should seriously implement the Covid-appropriate behaviour in the gatherings as per the latest government advisory,” said Vinod Vashishta from the Resident Welfare Association, Sector 22:

More than 50 people were vaccinated during today’s campaign at the centre. Some of them were brought on wheelchairs. The Union Minister interacted with the elderly who had come to the centre to register for vaccination.

After inaugurating the help desk, Harsh Vardhan inspected the vaccination centre. He interacted with people who came for vaccination and also encouraged doctors and other Health Department staff. The minister was accompanied by Dr Amandeep, Director, Department of Health and other officials.

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