In these dark times, IPL cannot look the other way

This picture has been used for representational purpose

The universe is facing its biggest crisis in the form of COVID-19. The same can be said about this country, this city. The pandemic has progressed in such a fashion that a sword of inevitability seemsto hang over the people who have yet to be afflicted by it. And while we comfort those who have been affected by the pandemic in various degrees, we hope that sharp tool doesn't fall on us.

In the midst of all this, the Indian Premier League (IPL) cricket tournament is taking place. How can a tournament go on when people are dying every day is a question that must be respected.

The flip side is that the cricket extravaganza is a welcome distraction in these gloomy times. Our evening entertainment is ensured till the end of May.

All this gives the BCCI-conducted IPL a good name. But is there more to be done by the people who run this country's cricket? A big yes. And does that mean display more sensitivity to the pandemic which is killing thousands every day? An even bigger yes.

It does seem that this glamour-filled tournament is oblivious to what is happening in the outside world. Cricket has always been a great medium to spread a good message. Where are those messages?

Where are the cricket stars showing up on this platform, with utterances of encouragement and concern for people suffering in the pandemic? We also want to see cricket playing a lead role in COVID-related charity campaigns.

Television viewership of the IPL is massive and that can be utilised in more noble ways to help society. Yes, cricketers do their share of charity but more needs to be done by them and the pillars of the IPL.

These are different times, dark times. It's not a time to look the other way.