Taking note of the problems faced by the homeless, the unemployed and the weaker sections of society during the on-going COVID-19 crisis, President Ram Nath Kovind said on Friday that the country would have have to be extra sensitive towards their needs and ensure nobody remains hungry.
Stating that people had set an example by “showing exemplary courage, discipline and solidarity in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic,” the President also expressed concern over two incidents — the gathering of migrant workers in Anand Vihar and the congregation of Tablighi Jamaat in Nizamuddin , both in Delhi — that caused a setback to the efforts.
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Speaking with the Governors and Lieutenant Governor (L-Gs)through a video-conference , the President asked them to deliberate upon the ways and means to help the poor and needy.
He acknowledged that ensuring none goes hungry is a big challenge but expressed confidence that Governors and L-Gs will contribute to the efforts made at the Central and State levels and involve different sections of society.
The meeting also deliberated upon reports of doctors, health workers and police personnel coming under attack in some parts of the country.
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“In the conference there was unanimity that there is no scope for laxity or complacency in fighting the invisible enemy. In this context, the President noted with concern the incidents of attacks on doctors, health workers and police personnel in some parts of the country,” a statement from the Rashtrapati Bhavan said.
The President also stressed that while ensuring that food and other essential items are made available to the needy, care has to be taken that no compromise is made on the question of social distancing.
Vice-President M. Venkaiah Naidu also participated in the meeting and gave his suggestions including roping in voluntary organisations.
