Govt alone not responsible for fending off pandemic: Mani
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, May 20 2021: Observing that it would be wrong to entrust all the responsibilities to the government in tackling the Covid-19 pandemic, Manipur Human Rights Commission (MHRC) acting chairperson Khaidem Mani has stressed the need for the citizens to do their part in the fight as well.

Addressing a press meet held at MHRC's office in Lamphelpat here on Thursday, Mani said that the whole world is facing the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, including violation and non-fulfilment of the basic principles of human rights such as Right to life, liberty, equality and dignity.

Among these rights, the Right to Life is most important, but the same cannot be ensured owing to the pandemic situation, he noted.

On the other hand, the state government and the authority concerned are responsible for upholding the fundamental rights enshrined in the Constitution of India, so as to ensure peace and tranquillity prevail.

However, the same has been forgotten in the pandemic with the situation becoming akin to a house arrest like scenario, Mani remarked.

"Amid this, we should understand that the state government or the authorities concerned including frontline workers alone cannot combat the pandemic.

To put an end to this distressful situation, we need to make the effort from our own selves first, like following the SOP guidelines, wearing of facemasks, use of sanitisers, etc.

On top of this, we should follow the advice of health experts including drinking 6 glasses of water daily, increasing intake of fresh greens and vegetables and vitamins", the acting chairperson asserted.

Stating that MHRC is also looking out for the welfare of the people and incorporating the advice of experts on daily basis, Mani said that the government is formed by representatives elected by the people and as such, the people should be able to discern right from wrong.

He then urged the people to extend support to the efforts being undertaken by the government, the authorities concerned and in various sector to put an end to the pandemic.

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