As the clock struck 9 on the night of 5th April 2020, the second-most populous nation lit up to display its gratification and solidarity against the deadly virus that has rocked the world. More than half of the country’s population expressed India’s resolve of collectively fighting the virus, which has 1.5 million people around the globe, by lighting up diyas, candles torches and even using flashlights. Prime Minister Modi on 3rd April had urged people to switch off the lights of their houses and light lamps, candles or mobile phone torches for nine minutes at 9 pm on 5th April to display the country’s “collective resolve” to defeat the coronavirus.
Just like the earlier call by the PM for clapping and “banging thali” to appreciate frontline fighters resulted in people breaking the rules of social distancing, even this event saw people bursting firecrackers, which is ironic, since we are fighting a respiratory disease. Hence, many critics and leaders of the Opposition party called out the PM, his supporters and the BJP as a whole for putting up a drama or a reality show like the Bigg Boss during this pandemic.
I personally agree that the usage of firecrackers and breaking the practice of social distancing caused by “Operation Diya” is resentful and made me question the mentality and common sense of our “mitron”, these events should have been well choreographed, coordinated and conducted in a better way. However, I would also like to question the critics, if someone is happy, if these nine minutes are bringing in some sort of relief and lifting the spirits of almost 1.3 billion people then why spread such hatred?
India has acted wisely and responded early against the threat of coronavirus, the so-called developed western nations with world-class medical facilities have been brought down on their knees by the virus. Comparatively, India has taken action to avoid the spread of the virus to a good extent. Agreed that the lockdown should have been planned in a better way, especially for the poor, the migrant workers and the daily wage workers. But, instead of criticising the government, we should try and use our privileges to the best of ability. Small steps like stopping the unverified forward messages can help in these difficult times.
I would personally request all, from Modi Bhakts to Modi haters and the ones who are indifferent, please do not spread hate. If someone is finding happiness in cheering from their balconies, let them do it. If someone wants to post constantly on social media, so be it. If someone feels that switching off the lights and singing Bhajans and lighting a diya makes them happy, relieves them from stress, and brightens up their lives, then support them. Agreed, this won’t cure the virus, but it will help in the improvement of their mental health. Be nice, be supportive, and most importantly, be considerate during this hardship.