Given the sudden spike of coronavirus cases, former Home Minister Robert G Lyngdoh today said that it is very sad to see politicians not following the Covid-19 protocols strictly, such as during election campaigning.
“It is very bad to see such a thing happening. We should lead by example and practice what we preach because it is not true that during the election there is no coronavirus and after the election the coronavirus comes back. Politicians should lead by example because people follow their actions and not their words,” Lyngdoh told Highland Post.
Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong recently maintained that Covid protocols could not be adhered to during recent campaigning for the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC) election because it was impossible to restrict public meetings.
Terming such acts by politicians as irresponsible, Lyngdoh said bureaucrats have to step in and implement all the Covid protocols strictly to contain the further spread of the coronavirus.
“I saw the Deputy Commissioner of East Khasi Hills and Commissioner Secretary of Health issuing notifications on Covid-19 protocols. I think all these should be strictly implemented because a lockdown should only be the last resort. After all, once we go back there (into lockdown) like last year then it will be very difficult to come out of it,” he opined. “They (the government) have access to experts, scientists, researchers who will be able to study the situation and tell them what the best way forward is taking into consideration all aspects. They have to be cautious and see that protocols are properly maintained and have the courage to take the necessary decisions when they have to be taken.”
When asked about schools in this situation, Lyngdoh said that the Health and Education Departments have to keep in mind that the first and foremost thing is the safety of the students.
