A few still disbelieve that the world is going through the most challenging period in this century. Credible agencies dismiss the official worldwide death rates of 3.45 million, stating that it could be grossly understated, and the figures could be as high as 8.5 to 9 million so far. In addition, newer variants and a third wave loom ahead, as do the black and white fungus menace. The sudden surge of the second wave has increased manifold the demand for beds, oxygen and medicines, which all seem too short for now.
Names have no more relevance as the death toll continues to mount. Social networks are becoming more and more obituary columns. Another much younger friend of mine fell prey to Covid. He was chirpy and bubbly, but now his picture adorns a wall in his house, muted forever. I guess most expect to escape Covid (May that be true!) and put their trust in God, who seems nowhere to be around. Godmen and astrologers have taken to hiding, for they do not know their fate as well.
Some are lucky to have been vaccinated; their numbers, though few. The youths, who are mobile and are the spine of the economy, are largely not vaccinated yet.
The vaccines or their lack are sources of politics, the nation deeply divided and taking sides. The public, in general, forget that they too have a role to play, stay safe, and practice social distancing. Political and religious gatherings have been unrestricted, with little or no regard to the pandemic.
Covid has thrown many universal political arrangements to winds. The pandemic cannot be restricted within borders, much like environmental disasters. The world still stands as ‘us and they,’ with the stranglehold of technology and science, which can avert a human catastrophe.
The quick development of vaccines by many is a sure silver lining in a scenario grim. I am sure our governments are trying to do their best to alleviate the sufferings. India cannot suffer a third wave, and our plan must be robust and sound for ending the pandemic right here. Amid the tales of woes and distress, many individuals and corporates have come forward with all kinds of help and assistance, fortifying the spirit of human values.
I pray for the departed, their grieving families, friends, the Covid infected, and those displaced from their jobs and places.
I shall be taking a hiatus from Facebook until the 1st of June, if not longer, to serve the needy and to pursue and finish my writing projects rather than increasingly becoming a running-commentator of silly political dramas.
God bless all.
Sampath Kumar
