Lockdown: Violations galore

Kashmiris seem to be least bothered about the prevalent situation that arises due to the ongoing pandemic as against Jammu division, the Valley recorded most of the violations by the people during the ongoing lockdown imposed by the government since last Thursday in a bid to prevent the deadly virus from spreading. According to the police statements of the last three days, the spokesman has claimed the arrest of nearly 300 people and registration of nearly 150 FIRs against the people across Kashmir for violating the lockdown norms. On May 05, police said it has arrested 129 persons, lodged 74 FIRs and also realized fine to the tune of Rs 91,650 from 586 people for violating the guidelines and rules throughout Kashmir. On May 06, 115 persons were arrested, 49 FIRs were lodged and also fine to the tune of Rs 103,370 from 601 people were realized for violating the guidelines, rules throughout the Valley and on May 07, Police arrested 43 persons, lodged 12 FIRs and also realized fine to the tune of Rs 70,010 from 480 people for violating the guidelines and rules throughout Kashmir. The violations are indicating that people don’t care about the situation and thus result in an increase in the number of cases. There is a need to understand the gravity of the situation and adhere to the guidelines in letter and spirit. The medicines won’t work until the situation is controlled within the society, thus the people must follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and help in controlling the situation on the ground so that the virus is combated properly and aptly.