It is the time to show that we are a nation.
MIRPURKHAS: The cases of the deadly COVID-19 are rising in Pakistan, a fact that must be noted with anguish. With health experts warning further spread of the damaging disease, it is high time to show unity and coherence at all levels of society. It is the need of hour that we Pakistanis stand united in the face of such challenging situations. It is the moment that requires us all to rise above our differences and put a coordinated response to mitigate the destructive effects of the outbreak. It is our national responsibility to step forward and join hands with authorities to fight against these odd circumstances.
The print, electronic and social media can play a pivotal role in connection with COVID-19. Instead of spreading fake numbers and panic, it is the job of the media to disseminate vital information focused on guiding people on taking preventive measures. It is the moment to spread the much-needed awareness among the masses.
Those associated with medical profession have extraordinary responsibility on their shoulders in these times of this overwhelming health crisis. Boycotting or threatening to boycott medical practices at such a critical moment is reprehensible. While the government must cater to the lawful demands of young doctors, these doctors themselves are needed to do more than their lawful duties rather than causing or threatening to cause any uncomfortable situation.
The current lockdown in Sindh, and expected ones in other parts of the country, is going to affect the daily wagers the most. Where the government is required to ensure that the poor must be able to meet their ends, the well-to-do and financially stable members of society are beseeched not to leave their neighbours to fend for themselves in this turbulent moment.
The novel situation demands extraordinary responses. At this critical juncture, we cannot afford divisive narratives, reckless policies, broken social bonds, selfish agendas, mindless ideologies, and political point-scoring. What we badly need, is love and sympathy for others, ideals of oneness, feelings of unity and brotherhood, respect for the rule and law, professionalism, courage and a determination to stand firm in the hours trial and tribulation. It is the time to show that we are a nation.
Shakee Ghouri
Published in The Express Tribune, March 23rd, 2020.
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