- It is well documented and acknowledged that India is not only diverse in its culture, tradition, language, cuisine, practice, belief, ethnicity, class, creed, and caste but also widely spread across the large swathe of the landscape. Of course, India was anointed as the most populous country in the world overtaking our neighbour China last year. Yes, we are an aspirational society looking forward to being counted among the world’s three largest economies in the next few years. Further, the incumbent Union Government would have us believe that the nation is poised to be counted as the most developed by 2047. Whether we eventually reach the stated milestone in time is another matter altogether. No harm in aiming for the moon though.
PC: Scroll.in
- As you are aware, we Indians are emotional, sentimental, and God-believing religious lot worshipping even stones, birds, animals, and whatnot. But believe we do, and that strong belief binds us strongly. Little wonder, pilgrimage is a preferred mode for most of us to express our gratitude by congregating in places of worship in large numbers. Even though the country has progressed tremendously over the years vis-à-vis embracing modernity-defined advancements in every sphere of life, our penchant for failing to not follow certain norms as enunciated by the authorities comes to the fore often. Mind you, we are most adept at following the established rules and guidelines while visiting overseas but tend to take things for granted at home.
PC: Medium
- As noticed often, we are in a hurry to trespass the queue on one or the other pretext without ever worrying too much about civic etiquette and a sense of diligence during certain occasions. Breaking the queue nonchalantly and/or rushing without maintaining lane discipline is a common phenomenon witnessed on several occasions. As a consequence, avoidable unfortunate stampedes occur with alarming regularity leading to the loss of precious lives. Especially, religious gatherings like the Kumbh Mela, sports events, political rallies, organized strikes, and some such events tend to make the law enforcement agencies task even tougher since the discipline expected from the people is missing. And the disaster is waiting to strike on unsuspecting people.
PC: Mint
- The recent tragedy that occurred during the ongoing Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj is a case in point when a sea of humans congregated to take a holy dip in the Ganga. The rush resulted in the loss of 30 lives and injured several leading to questions being raised about disaster preparedness. Soon after yet another stampede was witnessed in New Delhi railway station leading to 20 deaths and several others getting injured. Could these tragedies have been avoided? Absolutely. Simply taking umbrage under the guise of millions of people flocking during the Kumbh Mela will not prevent the authorities from showing more diligence, foresight, and preparedness to rise to the occasion. More tightening of the disaster management protocol is the answer.
