Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said that Epidemic Diseases (Amendment) Ordinance, 2020 will ensure safety of healthcare workers. ''The Epidemic Diseases (Amendment) Ordinance, 2020 manifests our commitment to protect each and every healthcare worker who is bravely battling COVID-19 on the frontline,'' Modi tweeted hours after the government brought an ordinance to end violence against health workers The Epidemic Diseases (Amendment) Ordinance, 2020 manifests our commitment to protect each and every healthcare worker who is bravely battling COVID-19 on the frontline.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said that Epidemic Diseases (Amendment) Ordinance, 2020 will ensure safety of healthcare workers. ''The Epidemic Diseases (Amendment) Ordinance, 2020 manifests our commitment to protect each and every healthcare worker who is bravely battling COVID-19 on the frontline,'' Modi tweeted hours after the government brought an ordinance to end violence against health workers The Epidemic Diseases (Amendment) Ordinance, 2020 manifests our commitment to protect each and every healthcare worker who is bravely battling COVID-19 on the frontline. It will ensure safety of our professionals. There can be no compromise on their safety! — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 22, 2020 × ''It will ensure safety of our professionals. There can be no compromise on their safety!'' he added. The government has brought an ordinance to end violence against health workers which carries imprisonment from 6 months to 7 years if anyone is found guilty. "No incident of violence or harassment against them will be tolerated. An ordinance has been brought in, it will be implemented after the President's sanction," Union minister Prakash Javadekar said earlier. "They can be penalized for Rs 1 lakh to Rs 5 Lakh," the minister said, adding, "amendment to be made to the Epidemic Diseases Act, 1897 and the ordinance will be implemented." "Such crime will now be cognizable and non-bailable. The investigation will be done within 30 days," Javadekar added. "If damage is done to the vehicles or clinics of healthcare workers, then a compensation amounting to twice the market value of the damaged property will be taken from the accused," the minister asserted.

'No compromise on their safety', tweets Modi after ordinance to end violence against health workers 

It has been over three weeks since India declared nationwide lockdown to fight and prevent the spread of coronavirus pandemic in India.&nbsp;

The lockdown has been extended till May 3, 2020. It’s important to evaluate the effectiveness of the government response and policy towards this pandemic.&nbsp;

When COVID 19 emerged in India in the first week of March, the global concern was that India will suffer a very high rate of death in view of its high-density population (1.3 billion people), with fewer resources, extreme poverty, and weak health system. It was believed that India will have devastating and far-reaching consequences.&nbsp;

However, the same has been proved to be untrue. &nbsp;Like many other nations, India also initially faced the dilemma of maintaining a balance between economy and health. However, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India managed quite well which is evident as&nbsp;its mortality rate is amongst the lowest in the world, considering the huge population in India.&nbsp;

(In United States 6,41,919 cases, 28,399 deaths, Spain - 1,80,659 cases, 18,812 deaths, Italy - 1,65,155 cases, 21,645 deaths, France - &nbsp;1,06,206 cases, 17,167 deaths, Germany - 1,34,753 cases, 3,804 deaths, United Kingdom - 98,476cases, 12,868deaths, China - 82,341cases 3,342 deaths, Iran - 76,389 cases, 4,777 deaths, Turkey - 69,392 cases, 1,518 deaths, India-11,933 and deaths-392)&nbsp;

Even the World Health Organisation’s chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus praised India for its effort and policy to combat coronavirus spread. This relative success could become possible due to the following reasons:&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>PM Modi is the first executive in the entire world to directly appeal to its own people to maintain social distancing. He has addressed the nation four times so far. In every address to the nation, he reassured the citizens that the governmental machinery is doing its best. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>He succeeded in bringing national unity, solidarity and cooperation throughout the country to fight this pandemic. Citizens in every part of India supported his decisions of Janta curfew, appreciating the efforts of essential service providers ( doctors, nurses, paramedical staff, government officials, members of the armed forces and police, disaster management officials ) by clapping, lighting a candle or 'diya' during this period. He gave citizens a national purpose to unite.&nbsp; 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Though India did face the challenge of internal migrant labourers, but the governments, at both centre and state level, synchronised their policies and efforts to extend the much needed social security to its vulnerable population.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

<ul>
	<li>Lastly, as the majority of Indians, today has full faith in the leadership of PM Modi, it becomes easy for the Indian government to implement its decision with the cooperation of people.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Moreover, PM Modi’s role in dealing with the pandemic has been acknowledged internationally as well. India actively participated in the meetings of SAARC ( South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) and G-20( Group of 20 nations). India has exported critical drugs like hydroxychloroquine, paracetamol as well as azithromycin to several countries to aid the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic - starting from the United States in the west to Bangladesh in the east.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

It has been over three weeks since India declared nationwide lockdown to fight and prevent the spread of coronavirus pandemic in India. The lockdown has been extended till May 3, 2020.

It has been over three weeks since India declared nationwide lockdown to fight and prevent the spread of coronavirus pandemic in India. The lockdown has been extended till May 3, 2020. It’s important to evaluate the effectiveness of the government response and policy towards this pandemic. When COVID 19 emerged in India in the first week of March, the global concern was that India will suffer a very high rate of death in view of its high-density population (1.3 billion people), with fewer resources, extreme poverty, and weak health system. It was believed that India will have devastating and far-reaching consequences. However, the same has been proved to be untrue. Like many other nations, India also initially faced the dilemma of maintaining a balance between economy and health. However, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India managed quite well which is evident as its mortality rate is amongst the lowest in the world, considering the huge population in India. (In United States 6,41,919 cases, 28,399 deaths, Spain - 1,80,659 cases, 18,812 deaths, Italy - 1,65,155 cases, 21,645 deaths, France - 1,06,206 cases, 17,167 deaths, Germany - 1,34,753 cases, 3,804 deaths, United Kingdom - 98,476cases, 12,868deaths, China - 82,341cases 3,342 deaths, Iran - 76,389 cases, 4,777 deaths, Turkey - 69,392 cases, 1,518 deaths, India-11,933 and deaths-392) Even the World Health Organisation’s chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus praised India for its effort and policy to combat coronavirus spread. This relative success could become possible due to the following reasons: PM Modi is the first executive in the entire world to directly appeal to its own people to maintain social distancing. He has addressed the nation four times so far. In every address to the nation, he reassured the citizens that the governmental machinery is doing its best. He succeeded in bringing national unity, solidarity and cooperation throughout the country to fight this pandemic. Citizens in every part of India supported his decisions of Janta curfew, appreciating the efforts of essential service providers ( doctors, nurses, paramedical staff, government officials, members of the armed forces and police, disaster management officials ) by clapping, lighting a candle or 'diya' during this period. He gave citizens a national purpose to unite. Though India did face the challenge of internal migrant labourers, but the governments, at both centre and state level, synchronised their policies and efforts to extend the much needed social security to its vulnerable population. Lastly, as the majority of Indians, today has full faith in the leadership of PM Modi, it becomes easy for the Indian government to implement its decision with the cooperation of people. Moreover, PM Modi’s role in dealing with the pandemic has been acknowledged internationally as well. India actively participated in the meetings of SAARC ( South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) and G-20( Group of 20 nations). India has exported critical drugs like hydroxychloroquine, paracetamol as well as azithromycin to several countries to aid the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic - starting from the United States in the west to Bangladesh in the east. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

PM Narendra Modi led from the front in the fight against coronavirus crisis in India

PM Narendra Modi will address the nation on the coronavirus situation in the country. It is expected that the lockdown can be further extended after April 14. Testing can be down in places with no COVID-19 cases.

India to expand COVID-19 testing: Testing in places with no cases

The Prime Minister's Office said that PM Narendra Modi will address the nation at 10 am on April 14. The 21-day nationwide lockdown to curb the spread of coronavirus ends on 14 April, and it is expected the prime minister is likely to talk about its possible extension.

PM Modi to address the nation on April 14 at 10 AM | Coronavirus lockdown in India may extend

The Pakistan government has pledged $3 million to the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation’s (SAARC) COVID-19 Emergency Fund. However, it has set a condition that the facility is administered by the Saarc secretariat. Pakistan is the last of SAARC's eight members to contribute to the fund. Watch report.

Pakistan government pledges $3 MN to SAARC COVID-19 Fund | Coronavirus Pandemic

Pakistan has boycotted India led SAARC meet on the coronavirus crisis. Prime Minister Narendra Modi called the video conference of all the SAARC member nations to discuss the remedy for the coronavirus outbreak in the SAARC nations.

SAARC meet: Pakistan engages in petty politics amid coronavirus crisis

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday asked the people to download the 'Aarogya Setu' mobile application, saying it is a fantastic use of technology to combat coronavirus.

"Tracks the spread of COVID-19 and notifies you if someone around you is suffering from it. "Also lists help-desk numbers of various states," the prime minister said in a series of tweets.

Today is the second day in a row Modi tweeted on the mobile application.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Aarogya Setu is an important step in our fight against COVID-19. By leveraging technology, it provides important information. As more and more people use it, it’s effectiveness will increase. I urge you all to download it.<a href="https://t.co/VaiPIjhxM2">https://t.co/VaiPIjhxM2</a><a href="https://t.co/8Irj6ApmOQ">https://t.co/8Irj6ApmOQ</a> <a href="https://t.co/L91vaLlCCq">pic.twitter.com/L91vaLlCCq</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1247816258571165697?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Responding to tweets by those who have started using the app, he said: "only feeling scared of COVID-19 will not help".

"We have to take the right precautions and fight this pandemic. Aarogya Setu is an important step in that direction," he said.

"By leveraging technology, it provides important information. As more and more people use it, its effectiveness will increase," he wrote on Twitter on Wednesday.

He also shared links from where the app can be downloaded from online stores.

The government had on April 2 launched the mobile app to help people assess themselves the risk of getting infected with coronavirus and alert authorities if they have come in close contact with a person infected with the deadly virus.&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday asked the people to download the 'Aarogya Setu' mobile application, saying it is a fantastic use of technology to combat coronavirus.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday asked the people to download the 'Aarogya Setu' mobile application, saying it is a fantastic use of technology to combat coronavirus. "Tracks the spread of COVID-19 and notifies you if someone around you is suffering from it. "Also lists help-desk numbers of various states," the prime minister said in a series of tweets. Today is the second day in a row Modi tweeted on the mobile application. Aarogya Setu is an important step in our fight against COVID-19. By leveraging technology, it provides important information. As more and more people use it, it’s effectiveness will increase. I urge you all to download it.https://t.co/VaiPIjhxM2https://t.co/8Irj6ApmOQ pic.twitter.com/L91vaLlCCq — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 8, 2020 × Responding to tweets by those who have started using the app, he said: "only feeling scared of COVID-19 will not help". "We have to take the right precautions and fight this pandemic. Aarogya Setu is an important step in that direction," he said. "By leveraging technology, it provides important information. As more and more people use it, its effectiveness will increase," he wrote on Twitter on Wednesday. He also shared links from where the app can be downloaded from online stores. The government had on April 2 launched the mobile app to help people assess themselves the risk of getting infected with coronavirus and alert authorities if they have come in close contact with a person infected with the deadly virus. (With inputs from PTI)

PM Modi urges people to download Arogya Setu app to combat COVID-19

Pakistan refuses to attend SAARC meet on COVID-19

Watch today in WION's Today Tonight: European Union Ambassador to India Ugo Astuto speaks exclusively to WION and laud India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi's initiatives.

Today Tonight: European Union envoy speaks to WION, laud PM Modi's initiatives

Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the nation by lighting a lamp after turning off all lights at his residence as people across the country switched off all the lights for 9 minutes at 9 PM on Sunday and lit a candle, 'diya', or flashlight, to mark India's fight against coronavirus.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
शुभं करोति कल्याणमारोग्यं धनसंपदा । 
शत्रुबुद्धिविनाशाय दीपज्योतिर्नमोऽस्तुते ॥ <a href="https://t.co/4DeiMsCN11">pic.twitter.com/4DeiMsCN11</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1246830985288642560?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Millions of people across the country dutifully obeyed to PM Modi's call and turned off lights.&nbsp;

President Ram Nath Kovind also joined the citizens of the country by demonstrating collective solidarity and positivity by lighting candles at 9 pm and expressed his gratitude towards every Indian for showing resolve in the fight against COVID19.

People across the country lit earthen lamps and candles in the balcony of their houses in the national capital and across the country.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's mother Heeraben, Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Home Minister Amit Shah, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat lights up earthen lamps as thousands of others across the country turned off lights as per Modi's appeal&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the nation by lighting a lamp after turning off all lights at his residence as people across the country switched off all the lights for 9 minutes at 9 PM on Sunday and lit a candle, 'diya', or flashlight, to mark India's fight against coronavirus.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the nation by lighting a lamp after turning off all lights at his residence as people across the country switched off all the lights for 9 minutes at 9 PM on Sunday and lit a candle, 'diya', or flashlight, to mark India's fight against coronavirus. शुभं करोति कल्याणमारोग्यं धनसंपदा । शत्रुबुद्धिविनाशाय दीपज्योतिर्नमोऽस्तुते ॥ pic.twitter.com/4DeiMsCN11 — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 5, 2020 × Millions of people across the country dutifully obeyed to PM Modi's call and turned off lights. President Ram Nath Kovind also joined the citizens of the country by demonstrating collective solidarity and positivity by lighting candles at 9 pm and expressed his gratitude towards every Indian for showing resolve in the fight against COVID19. People across the country lit earthen lamps and candles in the balcony of their houses in the national capital and across the country. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's mother Heeraben, Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Home Minister Amit Shah, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat lights up earthen lamps as thousands of others across the country turned off lights as per Modi's appeal

Millions across country heed to PM Modi's blackout call, light diyas  

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on April 3 spoke to some of the country’s top sportspersons via video conference. During the interaction, PM Modi asked the sportspersons to reach out to the masses and spread the message of positivity during these tough times of the coronavirus pandemic.

PM Modi's video conference with sportspersons: Positivity in fight against COVID-19

Around 2000 people have been infected in India and the death toll has climbed to 50 after the Tablighi Jamaat nightmare. In the latest 19 deaths out of the total 50 in India are related to the Tablighi Jamaat. The Health Ministry held a press conference and said that search is on to track all the people who attended the Tablighi Jamaat. PM Modi on the other hand that people of all religions must come together in the fight against the coronavirus.

Health Ministry: Tablighi Jamaat meet could be real cause of worry for India

After winning a second impressive term in May 2019, Prime Minister Narendra Modi abrogated Article 370 that gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir and brought the Citizen Amendment Act (CAA) which sparked a widespread protest in the country.&nbsp;

The CAA divided opinion in India. Globally country’s image as an inclusive state that respects multiculturalism was dented.&nbsp; 
 
By February 2020, after five months of relentless attacks from the liberals, PM Modi astutely crafted US President Donald Trump's visit. The Trump-Modi grand show started from Gandhi’s Ashram in Gujarat. Modi received the much-needed endorsement by the most powerful leader of the free world. By the end of the visit and the beginning of Coronavirus outbreak, the narrative shifted from domestic discontent to a nation staring at the unimaginable social and economic crisis.&nbsp;

For Modi, it's an opportunity to prove to his people that he is strong enough to rescue India. He surely does not wish to make the same mistakes as his Chinese, American and British counterparts have made.

China

Since the outbreak of Coronavirus, Chinese President Xi Jinping is missing. On stage on the Great Hall of the people, he declared before the lunar year holiday, “Every single Chinese person, every member of the Chinese nation, should feel proud to live in this great era. Our progress will not be halted by any storms and tempests.” Since this speech, more than 3000 have died in China. With the economy slowing down, unending protests in Hong Kong and a trade war with America, Corona was a battle Xi did not need. Also, the country known for its capabilities and firm hold on public administration was blamed for the spread of the virus globally. Its prime position as an investment and manufacturing hub is challenged like never before. The man who was tipped to be the Mao of 21st century China faces a credibility crisis not just in his country but globally. 
&nbsp; &nbsp; 
United Kingdom 
&nbsp; &nbsp; 
Boris Johnson proved to be a disaster in handling the spread of Coronavirus in the UK. In his handling of the situation, he came across as reckless and clueless. He was in such a good mood that he appeared non-serious about the consequences of the pandemic on his people and economy. He even failed as fine communicator to either impress or assure his people in this crisis. While the virus spread in Europe in February like fire, Johnson was away for 12 days in the countryside with his fiancée. The first acknowledgement to prioritise the virus as a challenge came from him on March 1, 2020. He went on casually, boasting that he continued shaking hands even with virus patients in hospitals.&nbsp;Today, he is COVID 19 positive. &nbsp;Spain and Italy gave repeated warnings to other European countries to avoid the mistakes they made. His “herd immunity” failed and quite lockdown was announced. Brought in to execute the Brexit, Johnson looks most unsustainable to fight the Corona pandemic. 
&nbsp; &nbsp; 
The United States 
&nbsp; &nbsp; 
Donald Trump, throughout January and February, pushed a conspiracy theory that COVID 19 reporting was done to bring him down. Today, he is in conflict with his Governors. He has picked up the battle with media wishing them to be appreciative of him. But he is putting a great show in converting Coronavirus briefings into campaign rallies. He ain't sparing his rivals, critics and media. All this is scarcely helping his people. At a town hall in February, he declared that the United States lose thousands of people to flu annually and shutting down the country for Coronavirus is no option. On January 22 in a TV interview, Trump declared that the situation was under control. In the month of February Trump made the virus sound minor nuisance. He lost precious time to invest heavily in upgrading health infrastructure. Trump believed that warm spring weather could kill the virus. He blamed the media for panicking the markets. Only by mid of March, Trump administration tried to undo the damage of callousness and misinformation.&nbsp;

Today, the United States tops the chart of Coronavirus infected countries with over 1,74,000 detections and over 3400 dead. The only good decision Trump has taken is to stop travel from China and the announcement of a 2 trillion dollar stimulus. Experts believe with the death toll surpassing China, it's an astounding statement on the US handling of the crisis.&nbsp;&nbsp;

India 
&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
Prime Minister Modi like Xi, Trump or Johnson was not caught napping on Coronavirus.

On March 13, the Indian health ministry declared - coronavirus as a health scare. For the first time on March 19, 2020, Modi appealed for social distancing. Parliament of India was working till March 23, India did lose precious time to up its game on testing, health infrastructure.&nbsp;

However, unlike the UK and the US, Modi announced the lockdown even before the numbers went out of control. An expansive task force of bureaucrats, scientists and doctors are continuously monitoring the situation. 
&nbsp;&nbsp; 
PM Modi has successfully convinced India that he is in control. He also smartly collaborated with people on social distancing, fundraising and invoking the sense of brotherhood in this crisis. Lockdown truly is India’s only hope to avert the crisis. While the first part has ended for Modi well, the worst is yet to come. 
&nbsp; 
PM Modi, evacuated Indians from China, Iran and Italy. He also helped evacuate nationals like Maldives, Myanmar, Bangladesh, China, US, Madagascar, Sri Lanka, Nepal, South Africa and Peru. Contrary to some in his party, Modi responded most scientifically, he sounded serious and sincere. But India failed to quarantine all who came from affected countries as an SoP. Thermal testing could not filter possible infections. India’s biggest challenge is its testing capacity. 
&nbsp; 
Consequences of Coronavirus on the already sinking economy will be dire. He is expected to deliver a robust economic package that will ensure jobs, manufacturing. Coronavirus is an opportunity for the Modi administration to prove that he has administrative skills beyond sharp optics. He has daringly put his neck on the line. 
&nbsp;&nbsp; 
Modi has demonstrated aggressive leadership in the time of crisis.&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

After winning a second impressive term in May 2019, Prime Minister Narendra Modi abrogated Article 370 that gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir and brought the Citizen Amendment Act (CAA) which sparked a widespread protest in the country.

After winning a second impressive term in May 2019, Prime Minister Narendra Modi abrogated Article 370 that gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir and brought the Citizen Amendment Act (CAA) which sparked a widespread protest in the country. The CAA divided opinion in India. Globally country’s image as an inclusive state that respects multiculturalism was dented. By February 2020, after five months of relentless attacks from the liberals, PM Modi astutely crafted US President Donald Trump's visit. The Trump-Modi grand show started from Gandhi’s Ashram in Gujarat. Modi received the much-needed endorsement by the most powerful leader of the free world. By the end of the visit and the beginning of Coronavirus outbreak, the narrative shifted from domestic discontent to a nation staring at the unimaginable social and economic crisis. For Modi, it's an opportunity to prove to his people that he is strong enough to rescue India. He surely does not wish to make the same mistakes as his Chinese, American and British counterparts have made. China Since the outbreak of Coronavirus, Chinese President Xi Jinping is missing. On stage on the Great Hall of the people, he declared before the lunar year holiday, “Every single Chinese person, every member of the Chinese nation, should feel proud to live in this great era. Our progress will not be halted by any storms and tempests.” Since this speech, more than 3000 have died in China. With the economy slowing down, unending protests in Hong Kong and a trade war with America, Corona was a battle Xi did not need. Also, the country known for its capabilities and firm hold on public administration was blamed for the spread of the virus globally. Its prime position as an investment and manufacturing hub is challenged like never before. The man who was tipped to be the Mao of 21st century China faces a credibility crisis not just in his country but globally. United Kingdom Boris Johnson proved to be a disaster in handling the spread of Coronavirus in the UK. In his handling of the situation, he came across as reckless and clueless. He was in such a good mood that he appeared non-serious about the consequences of the pandemic on his people and economy. He even failed as fine communicator to either impress or assure his people in this crisis. While the virus spread in Europe in February like fire, Johnson was away for 12 days in the countryside with his fiancée. The first acknowledgement to prioritise the virus as a challenge came from him on March 1, 2020. He went on casually, boasting that he continued shaking hands even with virus patients in hospitals. Today, he is COVID 19 positive. Spain and Italy gave repeated warnings to other European countries to avoid the mistakes they made. His “herd immunity” failed and quite lockdown was announced. Brought in to execute the Brexit, Johnson looks most unsustainable to fight the Corona pandemic. The United States Donald Trump, throughout January and February, pushed a conspiracy theory that COVID 19 reporting was done to bring him down. Today, he is in conflict with his Governors. He has picked up the battle with media wishing them to be appreciative of him. But he is putting a great show in converting Coronavirus briefings into campaign rallies. He ain't sparing his rivals, critics and media. All this is scarcely helping his people. At a town hall in February, he declared that the United States lose thousands of people to flu annually and shutting down the country for Coronavirus is no option. On January 22 in a TV interview, Trump declared that the situation was under control. In the month of February Trump made the virus sound minor nuisance. He lost precious time to invest heavily in upgrading health infrastructure. Trump believed that warm spring weather could kill the virus. He blamed the media for panicking the markets. Only by mid of March, Trump administration tried to undo the damage of callousness and misinformation. Today, the United States tops the chart of Coronavirus infected countries with over 1,74,000 detections and over 3400 dead. The only good decision Trump has taken is to stop travel from China and the announcement of a 2 trillion dollar stimulus. Experts believe with the death toll surpassing China, it's an astounding statement on the US handling of the crisis. India Prime Minister Modi like Xi, Trump or Johnson was not caught napping on Coronavirus. On March 13, the Indian health ministry declared - coronavirus as a health scare. For the first time on March 19, 2020, Modi appealed for social distancing. Parliament of India was working till March 23, India did lose precious time to up its game on testing, health infrastructure. However, unlike the UK and the US, Modi announced the lockdown even before the numbers went out of control. An expansive task force of bureaucrats, scientists and doctors are continuously monitoring the situation. PM Modi has successfully convinced India that he is in control. He also smartly collaborated with people on social distancing, fundraising and invoking the sense of brotherhood in this crisis. Lockdown truly is India’s only hope to avert the crisis. While the first part has ended for Modi well, the worst is yet to come. PM Modi, evacuated Indians from China, Iran and Italy. He also helped evacuate nationals like Maldives, Myanmar, Bangladesh, China, US, Madagascar, Sri Lanka, Nepal, South Africa and Peru. Contrary to some in his party, Modi responded most scientifically, he sounded serious and sincere. But India failed to quarantine all who came from affected countries as an SoP. Thermal testing could not filter possible infections. India’s biggest challenge is its testing capacity. Consequences of Coronavirus on the already sinking economy will be dire. He is expected to deliver a robust economic package that will ensure jobs, manufacturing. Coronavirus is an opportunity for the Modi administration to prove that he has administrative skills beyond sharp optics. He has daringly put his neck on the line. Modi has demonstrated aggressive leadership in the time of crisis. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Leadership lessons: In this time of crisis, PM Narendra Modi did what Xi and Trump couldn't

Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged the people of India to stay at home. Today India enters into day 2 of this 21-days lockdown. Despite the PM's address and based on the numerous reports of people not obeying lockdown clearly shows that people of India are not serious. Watch report:

Indians still not taking lockdown seriously: Police being assaulted in India

In the backdrop of coronavirus outbreak and subsequent lockdown, the Centre has come up with a Rs 1.70 lakh crore relief package for the daily wage earners, women workers, and migrant workers as the country remains in a 21-day lockdown period.

Coronavirus Lockdown: India’s FM says 'No one will go hungry'

21 -day complete lockdown in India has been imposed by PM Narendra Modi which will be effective from today. Never in contemporary time, this level of this lockdown has been announced in India. Watch this video to know what all are exempted from lockdown.

COVID-19: What all is exempted from 21-day lockdown in India

PM Narendra Modi on March 24 in his address announced a complete 21-day lockdown in India. However, essential services like, medical, hospitals, vegetables, milk, etc. If a person violates the lockdown the punishment can be up to 2 years in jail.

India goes under total lockdown for 21-days, Essentials exempted from lockdown | COVID-19

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced on March 24 that the Indian government has set aside 15,000 Cr rupees. PM Modi admitted that the economy will have to pay a price but saving lives should pay precedents over everything.

India imposes 21-day total lockdown, PM announces 15,000 Cr COVID-19 fund

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be addressing the nation at 8 PM on March 24 on the situation arising out of coronavirus outbreak and the efforts being taken to combat it.

PM Modi to address the nation at 8 PM IST on vital aspects of COVID-19

PM Modi's 2nd address on COVID-19 today at 8PM

Prime Minister Narendra Modi interacted with major media personnel in the country and discussed the media's role in the coronavirus outbreak.

PM Modi interacts with Media houses through video conferencing, COVID-19

Former Foreign Secretary of Bangladesh Shamsher Chaudhary has lauded the Indians for self-declared curfew that they observed on March 22 after following what their PM Narendra Modi had said.

Former Foreign Secretary of Bangladesh lauds Indians for self-declared curfew on March 22

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday appealed to the people to join the 'Janta Curfew' to make the fight against the coronavirus a success.

Modi had proposed 'Janta Curfew' on Sunday between 7 am and 9 pm as part of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-to-observe-janata-curfew-on-sunday-amid-spurt-in-coronavirus-cases-287824">social distancing </a>to check the spread of the deadly virus.

"In a few minutes from now, the #JantaCurfew commences. Let us all be a part of this curfew, which will add tremendous strength to the fight against COVID-19 menace," the prime minister wrote on Twitter.

He said the steps to be taken now will help in the times to come.

"Stay indoors and stay healthy," he said.&nbsp;

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In a few minutes from now, the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JantaCurfew?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JantaCurfew</a> commences. 
 
Let us all be a part of this curfew, which will add tremendous strength to the fight against COVID-19 menace. The steps we take now will help in the times to come. 
 
Stay indoors and stay healthy. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaFightsCorona?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaFightsCorona</a> <a href="https://t.co/11HJsAWzVf">pic.twitter.com/11HJsAWzVf</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1241533822312648704?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Cutting across party lines, chief ministers and others leaders urged the people to follow the self-imposed curfew, noting that "social distancing" was key to breaking the chain of infection, as the number of coronavirus cases rose to 315.

No passenger train will originate from any railway station in the country from midnight to 10 pm on Sunday while all suburban train services will be reduced to a bare minimum as well.&nbsp;

Metro services, including in Delhi, will remain suspended&nbsp;for the day.

Air carriers like GoAir, IndiGo and, Vistara have announced that they will be curtailing domestic operations on Sunday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday appealed to the people to join the 'Janta Curfew' to make the fight against the coronavirus a success. Modi had proposed 'Janta Curfew' on Sunday between 7 am and 9 pm as part of social distancing to check the spread of the deadly virus.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday appealed to the people to join the 'Janta Curfew' to make the fight against the coronavirus a success. Modi had proposed 'Janta Curfew' on Sunday between 7 am and 9 pm as part of social distancing to check the spread of the deadly virus. "In a few minutes from now, the #JantaCurfew commences. Let us all be a part of this curfew, which will add tremendous strength to the fight against COVID-19 menace," the prime minister wrote on Twitter. He said the steps to be taken now will help in the times to come. "Stay indoors and stay healthy," he said. In a few minutes from now, the #JantaCurfew commences. Let us all be a part of this curfew, which will add tremendous strength to the fight against COVID-19 menace. The steps we take now will help in the times to come. Stay indoors and stay healthy. #IndiaFightsCorona pic.twitter.com/11HJsAWzVf — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 22, 2020 × Cutting across party lines, chief ministers and others leaders urged the people to follow the self-imposed curfew, noting that "social distancing" was key to breaking the chain of infection, as the number of coronavirus cases rose to 315. No passenger train will originate from any railway station in the country from midnight to 10 pm on Sunday while all suburban train services will be reduced to a bare minimum as well. Metro services, including in Delhi, will remain suspended for the day. Air carriers like GoAir, IndiGo and, Vistara have announced that they will be curtailing domestic operations on Sunday.

PM Modi appeals to people to join 'Janta Curfew' to make fight against coronavirus a success

In an address to the nation, Prime Minister Narendra Modi made an extraordinary appeal to India. WION's Palki Sharma shares PM Modi's 9-point action plan to defeat the Wuhan coronavirus.

Gravitas: PM Modi's 9-point action plan for India to fight the Wuhan Coronavirus

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on March 19 appealed to people to not panic and resort to buying and hoarding stuff during the time of the pandemic since there is no need for such activities. The PM also called for a Janata curfew on March 22.

India Fights COVID-19: PM announces 'Janata Curfew' on March 22

All four convicts in the 2012 Nirbhaya gangrape case Mukesh Singh, Akshay Thakur, Pawan Gupta and Vinay Sharma were hanged in Delhi's Tihar jail on Friday. Reacting to the hanging Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, "Justice has prevailed" while emphasizing on the importance on the safety of women.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/all-four-convicts-in-nirbhaya-case-hanged-in-tihar-jail-287467">Also Read: All four convicts in Nirbhaya case hanged in Tihar jail</a>

"It's of utmost importance to ensure the dignity and safety of women. Our Nari Shakti has excelled in every field. Together, we have to build a nation where the focus is on women empowerment, where there's an emphasis on equality and opportunity, " PM Modi said.

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Justice has prevailed. 
 
It is of utmost importance to ensure dignity and safety of women. 
 
Our Nari Shakti has excelled in every field. Together, we have to build a nation where the focus is on women empowerment, where there is emphasis on equality and opportunity.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1240877444850003969?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 20, 2020</a></blockquote>
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In December 2012, a 23-year-old woman, who came to be known as 'Nirbhaya' and 'Damini' (fearless), was gang-raped and brutally assaulted in a moving bus in south Delhi.

In later days, her situation continued to deteriorate and on December 29, she succumbed to injuries in a Singapore hospital.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nirbhaya-case-timeline-how-events-unfolded-over-the-years-287387">Also Read: Nirbhaya case timeline: How events unfolded over the years</a>

A total of six people -- Mukesh Singh, Vinay Sharma, Akshay Kumar Singh, Pawan Gupta, Ram Singh and a juvenile -- were convicted in the gang rape and murder of the paramedic student.

Meanwhile, Nirbhaya's mother hailed the hanging as she said that today she finally got justice.

"As soon as I returned from Supreme Court, I hugged the picture of my daughter and said today you got justice," Asha Devi said just minutes after the convicts were hanged.

"We will request the Supreme Court to issue guidelines so that no one can adopt delaying tactics in such cases in future," Nirbhaya's mother added.

All four convicts in the 2012 Nirbhaya gangrape case Mukesh Singh, Akshay Thakur, Pawan Gupta and Vinay Sharma were hanged in Delhi's Tihar jail on Friday. Reacting to the hanging Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, "Justice has prevailed" while emphasizing on the importance on the safety of women.

All four convicts in the 2012 Nirbhaya gangrape case Mukesh Singh, Akshay Thakur, Pawan Gupta and Vinay Sharma were hanged in Delhi's Tihar jail on Friday. Reacting to the hanging Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, "Justice has prevailed" while emphasizing on the importance on the safety of women. Also Read: All four convicts in Nirbhaya case hanged in Tihar jail "It's of utmost importance to ensure the dignity and safety of women. Our Nari Shakti has excelled in every field. Together, we have to build a nation where the focus is on women empowerment, where there's an emphasis on equality and opportunity, " PM Modi said. Justice has prevailed. It is of utmost importance to ensure dignity and safety of women. Our Nari Shakti has excelled in every field. Together, we have to build a nation where the focus is on women empowerment, where there is emphasis on equality and opportunity. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 20, 2020 × In December 2012, a 23-year-old woman, who came to be known as 'Nirbhaya' and 'Damini' (fearless), was gang-raped and brutally assaulted in a moving bus in south Delhi. In later days, her situation continued to deteriorate and on December 29, she succumbed to injuries in a Singapore hospital. Also Read: Nirbhaya case timeline: How events unfolded over the years A total of six people -- Mukesh Singh, Vinay Sharma, Akshay Kumar Singh, Pawan Gupta, Ram Singh and a juvenile -- were convicted in the gang rape and murder of the paramedic student. Meanwhile, Nirbhaya's mother hailed the hanging as she said that today she finally got justice. "As soon as I returned from Supreme Court, I hugged the picture of my daughter and said today you got justice," Asha Devi said just minutes after the convicts were hanged. "We will request the Supreme Court to issue guidelines so that no one can adopt delaying tactics in such cases in future," Nirbhaya's mother added.

'Justice has prevailed': PM Modi on Nirbhaya case convicts hanging

The G20 countries are working towards finding ways to combat the coronavirus crisis. After the Indian PM Narendra Modi invited Saudi Arabia for a video conference. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has accepted the invitation. The G-20 leaders will be putting together a coordinated strategy to protect the people and safeguard the global economy. Watch report:

WION Dispatch: Saudi Prince accepts PM Modi's invitation to deal with Coronavirus crisis

Even as G20 is set to meet via video conference for a global coordinated after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's proposal, France has welcomed the development saying they expect India to be very dynamic. French envoy Emmanuel Lenain speaking exclusively to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal said, "we expect India to be very dynamic in raising the issue within G20."

WION Dispatch: France welcomes India's active role in G20, Lauds SAARC video conference

Judges manning the courts are custodians of the justice-delivery system. This system thrives and survives on public trust. For this reason, disputes engaging complex political, religious, and ethical dimensions find a quietus in courts. The most visible example in recent times was the settlement of the Ayodhya land dispute which brokered peace between two religious communities in India vying for a common piece of land. &nbsp;

This verdict was given by a bench of five judges on November 9, 2019. The then Chief Justice of India (CJI) Ranjan Gogoi presided over the bench. This verdict bought peace between the Hindu and Muslim communities. The disputed area went to the majority Hindus while the minority Muslims got an alternate land of five acres. The nation was on the boil as the ruling party at the Centre – the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) had made it their poll plank to construct a temple at this very site dedicated to Lord Ram, one of the Hindu Gods. The Court unanimously held the land to be Lord Ram’s birthplace. A mosque at this site had been brought down by Hindu karsevaks on December 6, 1992. Despite the heartburn, the verdict witnessed no communal backlash.&nbsp;

Four months later, former CJI Gogoi, one of the architects of the Ayodhya verdict, has been nominated by Indian President Ram Nath Kovind as a Member of Rajya Sabha. The choice of the President is governed by the ruling political dispensation at the Centre. In this case, it is the BJP which benefitted the most from the Ayodhya verdict. Also, Gogoi was part of the bench that gave a clean chit to the same BJP government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a multi-million dollar defence purchase deal. The clamour is growing for the ex-CJI to reject the offer. But Gogoi has decided to take oath. &nbsp;

Gogoi knows that judges in the past, even CJIs, entered Parliament and accepted government posts. If Gogoi chooses to walk the beaten track, there is a disturbing history that should dissuade him from doing so.&nbsp;

Justice (Retd) Bahrul Islam, served at the Supreme Court from 1980 to 1983. Six weeks remaining for his retirement, he resigned and got Congress ticket to Lok Sabha from Barpeta (Assam). A month before his resignation, he absolved chief minister of Bihar, Jagannath Mishra, a tall Congress leader, in a case of forgery and criminal misconduct. &nbsp;

Justice (Retd) Ranga Nath Mishra retired as CJI in 1991. In 1984, he headed a judicial commission to probe allegations whether the Delhi Sikh riots was orchestrated by the ruling Congress party and its leaders. The riots were in the aftermath of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi’s assassination. Mishra’s report blamed the police but absolved the Congress party of any complicity. &nbsp;

Within two years of his retirement, he became Chairman of India’s apex human rights body in October 1993. In 1998, Congress Party nominated him to the Rajya Sabha.&nbsp;

A similar charge of quid pro quo was levelled against former CJI P Sathasivam. Soon after his retirement in April 2014, he became Governor of Kerala. A year ago, he favoured Amit Shah, the present Union Home Minister, who then faced a fake encounter case as the Home Minister of Gujarat. Sathasivam presided a bench that closed probe against Shah in the alleged fake encounter killing of one Tulsiram Prajapati. The judge responded to the criticism claiming any judge in his position would have ruled the same.&nbsp;

There are other precedents too of judges accepting government posts. Judges after retirement are faced with a strong lure for political and constitutional offices. Many judges have hobnobbed with governments of the day for such posts. While nothing in law prevents judges from becoming Members of Parliament, it unnecessarily makes their decisions suspicious. This shakes public faith in judicial independence and casts doubts over their integrity. In England, there exists a bar upon retired judges to join the House of Commons. In India, this discretion is left to the judges. We do not need to control our judges. 
 
Their independence and impartiality have remained the hallmarks of their decision-making that has stood the test of time. For this reason, even the Constitution makers did not think it necessary to bar judges from holding post-retirement executive posts. But the time seems to be ripe for a rethink. After all, the judiciary is the last bastion for citizens to expect justice. And if public trust faulters, it will be hard for the judiciary to restore its institutional integrity. &nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Judges manning the courts are custodians of the justice-delivery system. This system thrives and survives on public trust. For this reason, disputes engaging complex political, religious, and ethical dimensions find a quietus in courts.

Judges manning the courts are custodians of the justice-delivery system. This system thrives and survives on public trust. For this reason, disputes engaging complex political, religious, and ethical dimensions find a quietus in courts. The most visible example in recent times was the settlement of the Ayodhya land dispute which brokered peace between two religious communities in India vying for a common piece of land. This verdict was given by a bench of five judges on November 9, 2019. The then Chief Justice of India (CJI) Ranjan Gogoi presided over the bench. This verdict bought peace between the Hindu and Muslim communities. The disputed area went to the majority Hindus while the minority Muslims got an alternate land of five acres. The nation was on the boil as the ruling party at the Centre – the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) had made it their poll plank to construct a temple at this very site dedicated to Lord Ram, one of the Hindu Gods. The Court unanimously held the land to be Lord Ram’s birthplace. A mosque at this site had been brought down by Hindu karsevaks on December 6, 1992. Despite the heartburn, the verdict witnessed no communal backlash. Four months later, former CJI Gogoi, one of the architects of the Ayodhya verdict, has been nominated by Indian President Ram Nath Kovind as a Member of Rajya Sabha. The choice of the President is governed by the ruling political dispensation at the Centre. In this case, it is the BJP which benefitted the most from the Ayodhya verdict. Also, Gogoi was part of the bench that gave a clean chit to the same BJP government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a multi-million dollar defence purchase deal. The clamour is growing for the ex-CJI to reject the offer. But Gogoi has decided to take oath. Gogoi knows that judges in the past, even CJIs, entered Parliament and accepted government posts. If Gogoi chooses to walk the beaten track, there is a disturbing history that should dissuade him from doing so. Justice (Retd) Bahrul Islam, served at the Supreme Court from 1980 to 1983. Six weeks remaining for his retirement, he resigned and got Congress ticket to Lok Sabha from Barpeta (Assam). A month before his resignation, he absolved chief minister of Bihar, Jagannath Mishra, a tall Congress leader, in a case of forgery and criminal misconduct. Justice (Retd) Ranga Nath Mishra retired as CJI in 1991. In 1984, he headed a judicial commission to probe allegations whether the Delhi Sikh riots was orchestrated by the ruling Congress party and its leaders. The riots were in the aftermath of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi’s assassination. Mishra’s report blamed the police but absolved the Congress party of any complicity. Within two years of his retirement, he became Chairman of India’s apex human rights body in October 1993. In 1998, Congress Party nominated him to the Rajya Sabha. A similar charge of quid pro quo was levelled against former CJI P Sathasivam. Soon after his retirement in April 2014, he became Governor of Kerala. A year ago, he favoured Amit Shah, the present Union Home Minister, who then faced a fake encounter case as the Home Minister of Gujarat. Sathasivam presided a bench that closed probe against Shah in the alleged fake encounter killing of one Tulsiram Prajapati. The judge responded to the criticism claiming any judge in his position would have ruled the same. There are other precedents too of judges accepting government posts. Judges after retirement are faced with a strong lure for political and constitutional offices. Many judges have hobnobbed with governments of the day for such posts. While nothing in law prevents judges from becoming Members of Parliament, it unnecessarily makes their decisions suspicious. This shakes public faith in judicial independence and casts doubts over their integrity. In England, there exists a bar upon retired judges to join the House of Commons. In India, this discretion is left to the judges. We do not need to control our judges. Their independence and impartiality have remained the hallmarks of their decision-making that has stood the test of time. For this reason, even the Constitution makers did not think it necessary to bar judges from holding post-retirement executive posts. But the time seems to be ripe for a rethink. After all, the judiciary is the last bastion for citizens to expect justice. And if public trust faulters, it will be hard for the judiciary to restore its institutional integrity. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Post-retirement jobs: Judiciary’s bane

Following the SAARC template which came to fruition yesterday, G7 countries conducted a video conference today to address the COVID-19 outbreak. During the conference, the Leaders of the Group of Seven (G7) expressed the conviction that ''current challenges related to the COVID-19 pandemic need a strongly coordinated international approach, based on science and evidence, consistent with our democratic values, and utilising the strengths of private enterprise''.

G7 follows SAARC's suit, conducts a video conference to chalk out COVID-19 plan

Nepal has praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led initiative of calling a SAARC conference on dealing with the coronavirus outbreak, and has termed it "timely". He said it shows the grouping is not "dead" and at the time of need can "come together... irrespective of any differences".

Nepal envoy praises PM Modi's initiative over coronavirus crisis

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