We all have been deeply affected by the plight of migrants and other vulnerable people during the 2020 Lockdown. What can we do tp prevent such a disaster again? Join me in signing this petition. If a large number of us appeal to our P.M. to take these specific steps, we might help achieve prevention or at least mitigation of the human tragedy.

The Petition

Essential support to vulnerable persons during 2021 lockdowns: Petition to the Honorable Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi

Honorable Shri Narendra Modiji,

Another wave of the pandemic seems to be attacking large parts of our country. Lockdowns are being contemplated in some states; already Maharashtra has imposed a partial one in Mumbai this weekend. We understand the need for taking such measures in order to contain the pandemic. At the same time, we are concerned that the livelihoods of the poor and vulnerable such as daily wage workers, migrant workers, petty traders and the self-employed should not be destroyed as happened last year. Typically, they depend on their daily earnings for their meals the same day, and have no savings and hence cannot stand the shock of a lockdown, as was clear last year.

We request you to ensure:

Free extra food supplies to each vulnerable family for the next few months in each affected state or part of it, as the case may be;
Substantial cash transfers to both JanDhan account holders and BPL families;
Inclusion of street vending of vegetables, fruits, etc. among essential services [if stores selling such items can be kept open, surely vendors too can do their business];
Keeping transport services open so that those including migrants who are not eligible for the above services or find them inadequate can go to their native villages/towns;
Provision of ready-to-eat food and water to poor migrants who have lost their jobs for the duration of their journey;
Inclusion of foods suitable for infants and young children in such packets.
A large number of children are being affected in the current wave and at most attention is required to provide quality hospital care if required.
Further, while children’s education is a key concern, their safety and life are very important. There is a big lobby which is pressuring governments to start schools and conduct exams. Parents are however fearful for their children’s welfare. Perhaps a cafetaria approach of various methods may be tried. As the highest authority of the Nation, we request you to take an appropriate decision to protect the interests and rights of the children.
Till such time that schools are reopened, foodgrains and other items should be delivered at home regularly.

These actions may have to be implemented by the state concerned, but the funds and other support may need to be provided by the Union Government.

Above all, we request you to announce a national policy on such support , followed by the release of funds and food supplies as soon as needed in each case.

 

R.Padmini

Bengaluru

5th April 2021