Thread by @ShashiTharoor

This thread deals w/the unfortunate developments in & around Poonthura, a lovely fishing village that has become the centre of a #Covid19 controversy in Thiruvananthapuram district that erupted in a most unfortunate manner yesterday & earlier today.

I condemn the unpleasant incident that occurred yesterday at Poonthura against our selfless health workers,who are risking their own lives to save others. It is our responsibility as a society to protect them&provide them a safe working environment. What happened was regrettable.

It is equally wrong to discriminate against or isolate our fellow citizens in Poonthura, mostly fisherfolk who braved their lives to save many during the 2018 Kerala floods. We need to support them in order to help them cope with the stress& pressure of the current situation.

Poonthura is in a densely populated area. 1000s of people are isolated there, w/no means to meet their daily needs including for food &medicine. Rather than pointing fingers at those suffering from pandemic restrictions, I appeal to the StateGovt to ensure the following urgently:

My 5-point appeal to State Govt for Poonthura:
1.Segregate the positive cases ward-wise (Poonthura, Manikyavilakom, Beemapalli, Ambalathara etc)
2. Provide proper care for patients according to the #Covid19 protocol. Communicate w/the people effectively to clear misunderstandings

3.Compassionate behaviour and supportive approach from the Police
4. Supply of essential items using mobile Maveli Stores during specified timings, including facility for mobile ATMs
5. Distribution of provision kits for people who live on daily subsistence
#PeaceForPoonthura

That's my 5-point plan for the State Govt. I also renew my earlier appeal to the authorities to convert the old airport building in Shankumugham into a #Covid19 facility for the affected people of Poonthura&other nearby coastal villages rather than transporting them to Varkkala.