IMA Urges Centre To Tighten COVID Protocols In View Of Mass Gatherings

New Delhi: Alarmed by the tourist influx at hill stations and other mass gatherings, president of the Indian Medical Association (IMA), Dr JA Jayalal on Monday appealed to the Centre to reconsider its decision of relaxing restrictions. “Holding any festival is not advisable as it can be dangerous. IMA requests the government to reconsider their decision regarding any kind of mass gatherings,” IMA president, Dr JA Jayalal was quoted as saying to news agency ANI.

“With the global evidence available and the history of any pandemics, the third wave is inevitable and imminent. However, it is painful to note that in many parts of the country, both the government and public are complacent and engaged in mass gatherings without following Covid protocols,” the medical association said in a press release on Monday.

“Tourist bonanza, pilgrimage travel, religious fervour all are needed, but can wait for few more months. Opening up these rituals and enabling people without vaccination to go scot-free in these mass gatherings are potential super spreaders for the Covid third wave,” it said.