Had a good conversation w/ @CMOKerala @vijayanPinarayi about a large number of complaints streaming in from students: university students being obliged to take exams despite major challenges,&schoolchildren asked to study online or byTV when many don't have basic facilities2do so
I have urged him to relax both sets of requirements during this unnatural #COVID19Pandemic period. Postponing exams & reducing the burden on schoolkids are essential even if it means truncating the following academic year. He has agreed to consider the issue sympathetically.
Also discussed w/CM the obstacles impeding repatriation flights of Keralites from Gulf countries. e.g.Requirement of Covid-free certificates from passengers is a problem for travellers from those countries which do not test asymptomatic people. Our Embassies are not equipped2test
He mentioned that 50 of yesterday's 81 cases in Kerala had come from the Gulf. He's concerned about such people infecting otherwise healthy passengers &spreading the virus widely. "I don't mind a special flight of only confirmed Covid patients. We will look after them in Kerala."
Issue is mixing healthy&infected people. This is a vital conundrum that cannot easily be resolved. But then good governance is about tough decisions. I wish him well in ensuring Kerala maintains its excellent record in handling the pandemic & keeping the general population safe.
Finally, took the opportunity to convey my blessings for his daughter's marriage tomorrow. Life must go on amid a pandemic, & "love in the time of Covid" carries a special joy!
