Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has reiterated that social distancing is the only way to counter the spread of COVID-19 saying the virus does not discriminate and it can infect anyone.
Interacting with the people of Varanasi through video conferencing today, the Prime Minister said, some people despite being empowered with knowledge are not paid heed to warning which is unfortunate. He said the Mahabharat war was won in 18 days and this war the whole country is fighting against coronavirus will take 21 days and the aim is to win it.
He also warned of strict action against those misbehaving with people on the frontline of the fight against coronavirus like doctors and airline crew, and sought the cooperation of citizens with administration to deal with the crisis.
Shri Narendra Modi asked people to speak to their doctors before taking any medicine clarifying that there is no medicine or vaccine for coronavirus as of now.
He warned the people that they should not believe in rumours about the outbreak. He added that the government has tied up with WhatsApp to create a helpdesk to give credible information on coronavirus. The number is – 9013151515.
The Prime Minister also said, he is very pained by the misbehaviour of some people against doctors, airlines crew and staff of essential services who are at the forefront of combating coronavirus. Mr. Modi said the stern action will be taken against the guilty.
The Prime Minister added that doctors and nurses are incarnations of God and they are endangering themselves to save people and they should be respected. Shri Modi also urged people to help poor in this hour of crisis and promise themselves to help nine poor families everyday for the next 21 days.
The Prime Minister said, in this hour of crisis, Kashi can lead the people, can teach the country patience, compassion and peace. He also expressed his condolences to the families of the deceased of the terror attack at the Gurudwara in Kabul. During the interaction, Shri Modi also answered questions of the people.
(With inputs from AIR & PIB)
