Maturity, discipline only way forward in Covid times

This picture has been used for representational purpose

It is marshals and mayhem on Mumbai's streets as videos have gone viral about the public taking on marshals posted at various spots to ensure that people follow Covid-19 protocol.

One has to point out though that even before Covid-19, clean-up marshals and Mumbaikars were on a collision course at many places. The marshals used to haul up members of the public for spitting or dirtying public places. When fines were charged, one would hear and read about arguments that quickly escalated into physical violence at times.

We had also witnessed imposters masquerading as clean-up marshals, fines being charged ad hoc and sometimes accusations unfairly levelled. This scenario has contributed to a large trust deficit between the marshals and the general public who view them as opportunists and troublemakers at most times.

Extend this same prickly relationship to marshals who have now doubled up as Covid-19 protocol custodians in public places. They are usually engaged in ensuring that people mask up for safety in these times. They can fine non-mask users. We have to see more co-operation between marshals and the public to ensure a smooth way ahead in public spaces, in these days of the pandemic.

Experts have claimed we have many months ahead of masking up and we have to see that this friction is reduced between marshals and the common man. First, marshals when correct and seeking to impose a fine, must have access to some back-up as one marshal is going to be hopelessly outnumbered if the public decides to become hostile.

Second, the public must have the maturity and restraint to listen to the marshal and certainly mask up and pay up if they have erred. Mutual respect and regard and adherence to rules will serve Mumbai best. Let us get to it.