Show Empathy

Y Merina Chishi

While Nagaland has managed to keep Coronavirus out of its boundaries, fear of the virus entering the State with the repatriation of those citizens stranded outside had gripped the citizens here. The fear and apprehensions of the people is quite understandable, but this is a situation that we must be prepared to face. We cannot live in our own bubble and think that our fears and problems are the only thing that matters. Appeals "not to come home" only goes to show our contagion attitude towards our fellow citizens.

The lives of many Naga people living in other parts of the country have been turned upside down due to the coronavirus pandemic. Many have lost their jobs and run out of money to sustain themselves. Several more hundreds of students are stranded and yearning to be with their families. Given the dire situation that they have been placed in, many are desperate to come home. So, how can we deny them that opportunity? We cannot make decisions for people based on our own fears and difficulties. In times like these, no ones fear is greater than the other. We are all in faced with the same situation. 

It must be understood that not all those living or working outside the State  are from economically sound backgrounds. Many are there working and supporting their families back home. We need to also know that many people who are stranded outside are already making a lot of sacrifices. Many are huddled up in one room apartments, some with the last of their earnings, sharing meals with friends and well wishers. Therefore, if we cannot help them, we better not make choices for them.

Those making such appeals to "reconsider" returning have allowed the fear to overpower the crisis. The problem is now not about those returning (with the virus); rather it is about ho w well prepared our government is to tackle the arrival of those returning and ensuring that the repatriation and quarantine plans are effectively carried out. Furthermore, community participation, awareness and the importance of sharing information on any cases related to Coronavirus must be the thrust at this crucial juncture. It is a Herculean task for a small state like Nagaland but not an impossible one if we all participate in making it work.  

Also, those returning are not less fearful of being exposed to the virus. So a little empathy will go a long way. It may not change the situation but it will  bringing positivity and enable us all to make safe and helpful choices during this crisis. These past few weeks have brought out many positive and compassionate stories; let's not stop here.