Lockdown is no remedy!

It's indeed a matter of serious concern that COVID-19 has entered a dangerous phase in Assam. But, the conscious citizens of the state hardly find any justification for getting obsessed with the contagion without thinking in the same line about our mounting economic concerns triggered by the prolonged lockdowns. Needless to speak of the large-scale loss of jobs and livelihoods the economic shutdown has caused. The crying need of the hour is that the policy makers and leaders of the state have the realization that the aforesaid loss is not something to be brushed aside. It is time the government expeditiously did its utmost to figure out ways for revival of the economy stopping the exaggerated concern over the pandemic. Most importantly, now the confidence of people in the state's economy needs to be built urgently through painting a rosy as well as accurate picture of the same rather than persisting with lockdowns. It's well understood that lockdowns are no longer an answer and only wearing of masks, social distancing and personal hygiene are the panacea. The general public must duly emphasize the importance of these practices. Hopefully, the government will not clamp a fresh lockdown any more but care to oil the wheels of the economy at the earliest and thus prioritize the redressal of the hardships of the masses.

Dipen Gogoi,

Teok, Jorhat.