The whole nation on March 22, 2020, is observing the ‘Janta Curfew’ as requested by the Indian PM Narendra Modi in order to practice self-isolation and social distancing in a bid to avoid further spread of the Coronavirus in the country.
He mentioned that all citizens should remain indoors from 7 am to 9 pm on that day. "Under this Janata (public) curfew, no one should leave their home or gather in their neighborhoods. Only those related to essential services should go out," said the Prime Minister, adding that all citizens must abide by it.
Sachin Tendulkar calls PM Modi's Janta Curfew, 'the right step' in the fight against coronavirus
"On that day, at 5 pm, we will stand at our balconies, windows or doors for 5 minutes, we will show our gratitude to those maintaining essential services by ringing bells, sounding sirens and clapping...," he said.
Many celebrities including cricketers took the pledge to observe this day of self-isolation and urged their fans and followers to do the same. Off-spinner R Ashwin hailed PM Modi’s initiative given the country’s fight against the novel COVID-19 virus.
The initiative has got off to a great start with deserted roads and public places witnessed all around the country since the curfew started. "Unbelievable start to the #JantaCurfew , pin drop silence as they used to say in school. Hope this is extended beyond this day and social distancing can be adhered to In the days to come," Ashwin tweeted.
He also called out people who were critical of this initiative and pointing out the mistakes in doing so. He chided such ignorant people and tweeted,” People finding faults with actions of others or pointing out what’s wrong with our system, just take a break and look inwards while you strictly practice “social media distancing”. That will be your biggest contribution towards the harmony of the society. ???????? Jai hind.”
Countries like South Korea, China, and Japan have managed to flatten the curve of the rise in the spread of the disease thanks to strict self-isolation of citizens and other similar measures. India is on the road for a potential spike in positive coronavirus cases in the third phase, which is community spread and in order to stop it from happening, this Janta Curfew is a much-needed step.
