COVID19 & Religious Hatred: A Way Forward

The current crisis that the world is unique and something that the world is not simply prepared for. Every day gives rise to a set of challenges. It is not easy at all. Given such extreme circumstances, it is easy for all of us to react adversely. But no matter what we do, we should not endanger the lives and safety of others.

It is in this context that the Tablighi Jamaat incident and the subsequent actions are to be seen. Several thousand persons met at a place together, notwithstanding the COVID19 crisis that the world was facing. This was reportedly in defiance of several legal provisions. Thereafter, it appears that the self-quarantine restrictions were not taken seriously jeopardizing lives of many. Not only those from the Tablighi Jamaat, many did not, and do not, know the importance of self-quarantine.

So what is the way forward?

1) We all should put our prejudices aside and work towards the common goal: getting rid of the COVID19. 

2) We can do that only if we protect ourselves and our family members from getting infected or from spreading it to others.

3) It is not unsurprising for many to doubt or suspect compliance of the lockdown restrictions. We should as parents, children, siblings, relatives, friends, or acquaintances of such persons (who doubt or suspect lockdown restrictions) inform them the importance of lockdown: this is essential.

4) Every person who can influence others- be it head of family, panchayat head, head of a political party, priest, maulvi, or whoever- should immediately communicate the importance of lockdown and self- quarantine to those under his/ her influence.

5) Such an influencer, along with his/ her team, should ensure supply of essential items to the group and take care of the group's needs, and at the same time ensure lockdown and self- quarantine. 

6) Only by taking steps as per (3) and (4) can we all educate our parents, children, siblings, relatives, friends, or acquaintances and ensure they comply with the lockdown measures so as to prevent spreading of COVID19.

For the next ten to fourteen days, we need to keep our prejudices away and ensure that we act towards the common goal: getting the world rid of the COVID19.