The three-way model

As corona is spreading, some states and districts in India have controlled it nicely. It was Kerala where corona planted its roots first, but it now stands almost removed. The state used three ways, a model to shunt it out. First was a complete lockdown, second, the screening of all those who had come from abroad and quarantined them at their places. Finally, the drone inspection and a phone app ensured that the suspects did not go outside. Bhilwara did the same. The Rajasthan government completely shut it down. Now, the situation is under control. Every local government should use this model. Lockdown means complete lockdown, no relaxation at all. A stitch in time saves nine.

SAROJ BANYAL, HAMIRPUR

Follow their lead

The Kerala model, Bhilwara district in Rajasthan and Pathlawa village of Punjab show us how to contain the deadly virus. The recovery percentage in India is 11.4% but 52% in Kerala, which is commendable. If these places can defeat the pandemic, why not the whole of the country? The Kerala government, especially its Health Minister, deserves appreciation.

Ramanjot Kaur, Jalandhar

Their agni pareeksha

In his address to the nation on April 14, the PM talked of tapasya and tyaag by the citizens of the country. True, tapasya and tyaag is the lot of the lower strata of society, which is undergoing agni pareeksha. The rich have been confined to the comforts of their homes, with means of entertainment and essential supplies. They can talk of social distancing and appreciate the colours of rejuvenated nature because their kitchens are stocked. It is the poor who are bearing the brunt. They are away from their families with no money and means, and are at the mercy of the government and NGOs for every meal. Imagine if you or your child had to sleep on an empty stomach with no hope for a better tomorrow. Their hardships should be mitigated by the state.

NEENA SANGHA, by mail

Same rule for all

Refer to the treatment meted out to the labourers in Maharashtra; why did the Mumbai Police not use the danda against the Wadhawans who broke the law and went on a holiday? Is it because they are billionaires? Migrant labour can be used to harvest crops by making comfortable arrangements for their stay and food.

Madan Lal Gupta by mail

At risk of mental illness

In these difficult times, mental health has been overlooked. Staying at home has resulted in an increase in cases of emotional distress. People are consuming news about the coronavirus from every possible source and this has become a contributing factor. Recently, there was a case of suicide by a person in quarantine. As per a WHO report, by 2020, India will see a 20% increase in cases of mental illness.

Sukriti Sharma, Una

Don’t stop WHO funding

Apropos ‘US halts WHO funds over Covid coverup’ (April 16), the virus is threatening the very existence of humanity. It is highly desirable that world leaders remain pragmatic. The US should restore funding to the WHO, maybe on the condition that Antonio Guterres vacate the august UN body post in the interest of cooperation. Confrontation will not help.

KL Noatay, by mail

Employ Wuhan strategy

Wuhan had a population of 11 million and announced strict lockdown to contain Covid. Initially, people were allowed to step out of their homes, but restrictions were soon tightened. Later, the policy became more aggressive, with officials going door to door to check the infected persons. India should follow the same strategy to make the lockdown effective and segregate the Covid patients. This will yield success in the endeavour.

MANRAJ SINGH, Gurdaspur

We need them

Doctors, police and health staff are working day and night without thinking about their loved ones and their lives. We should be grateful to them, rather than blaming and attacking them. If they stop working, it would be arduous to bring India back from the brink.

Simran, Kaithal

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Mahender Singh, Sonepat

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