ED: This is not the time for mass gatherings

It is encouraging to note the continued dedication with which the current government has prepared for a potential second wave of Covid-19, one that could claim many more lives if we are not careful.

The latest step taken in this regard has been the decision to discourage mass gatherings and the use of microphones and loudspeakers across the country, and directives have been sent to local administrations to that effect.

This would go a long way towards ensuring that processions, rallies, and political or religious events remain limited in scope, essential in our fight in this daunting challenges.

It must be understood that mass gatherings at this point are dangerous, to say the least, and it is commendable that the government has thought of the long-term detrimental effects this could lead to, and prioritized the health of the nation above all else.

We have, unfortunately, seen too many rallies and processions, even in this time, and these could, no doubt, become super-spreader events. 

Bangladesh has made an impressive and swift economic recovery since the coronavirus found its way within our borders, and it would be a shame to let short-term thinking destroy our current economic standing.

For rallies and other political events, the government has stated that prior permission is necessary and that legal action will be taken against those who defy the directive -- this is the sort of hardline approach necessary as, when it comes to the contagious nature of the coronavirus, we cannot afford to take any chances.