Appeals that fall on deaf ears!

Every day -- or should it be said ‘all the time’ -- appeals are being made by medical professionals; ministers; responsible citizens and even the president and prime minister of the country, for people to wear a mask before going out but on the whole these appeals fall on deaf ears -- and it’s not just the ears of the ignorant but the so called ‘educated’ persons as well. Even quite prominent personalities like politicians; show biz stars and others are guilty of ignoring this important aspect of controlling the spread of the coronavirus.

While there have been reports in other countries about some people not wearing masks in public to avoid getting infected by the COVID 19 virus and also to avoid infecting others, in Pakistan it has reached the height of stupidity and become a big joke -- many persons think there is no such pandemic! Any kind of deterrent or threat has not made the public the least bit worried and a majority of them go around without a mask or if they do wear one it is usually hanging around the chin. If they are given one to wear during the ridiculous campaigns that are carried out every now and again, they do so, grinning from ear to ear -- especially if they are being shown on television -- and it’s discarded as soon as they are on their way. A waste of time and money!

Calling out the army to assist the law enforcers was not really a big help because their role was restricted, which it should not have been. Lockdowns do work but the incorrigible find ways and means to avoid restrictions by any means possible and while some of them get caught, the majority are too wily and past masters at deception and ways to avoid the law. More stringent measures are the need of the hour. How about something more punitive?

On the other hand, instead of putting offenders in jail (release is quick) or maybe fining them (too easy), they can be put in trucks and left far from home so they have to walk or find their way back? You never know. It may work -- and be easier for law enforcers!