The global pandemic of COVID-19 has reached a stage of a massive and unprecedented crisis in India. Evidence from previous historical research of epidemics suggests physical distancing, timely state action and communicating the truth are critical strategies to effectively tackle a pandemic.  COVID-19 outbreak demands an immediate, comprehensive and humane response if we are to limit and arrest its devastating impacts on the lives and livelihoods of crores of people.

While as a nation we must come together to tackle the pandemic and save lives, we must do this with deep humanism. This can only be possible if we ensure steps taken do not accentuate the struggles and suffering of poor and working classes, natural resource dependent communities, farmers, fishworkers and pastoralists, domestic workers and daily wagers, and small and marginal traders who constitute a majority of India’s population.  

The Coalition for Environmental Justice in India has issued a statement highlighting steps that are essential to secure India’s diverse and large population from the worst impacts of the pandemic. The detailed statement can be accessed here: https://tinyurl.com/t7ed68h

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