The Controversial Decision Behind 'Lockdown 4.0'

The recent surge in COVID-19 cases and debates around the need for a national lockdown have sparked intense scrutiny over the decision-making process in India. Many are questioning why Narendra Modi, the Prime Minister, did not personally declare Lockdown 4.0. This decision has been clouded in mystery, drawing attention to the underlying political and strategic motivations.

Political Objective: Shielding Modi and Protecting Public Perception

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government is keen on projecting a positive image. In their eyes, any negative news needs a scapegoat, while every positive development is attributed to the Prime Minister him/herself. Luv Aggarwal, a member of the BJP, has often taken the fall for controversial decisions, but it is Narendra Modi who always remains in the spotlight. This strategy aims to maintain the public’s perception of Modi as an undisputed leader who made significant contributions like the repeal of Article 370 and the construction of the Ram Mandir.

Administrative Challenges of National Lockdowns

The declaration of lockowns, particularly Lockdown 1.0 and Lockdown 2.0, required thorough planning and coordination. These were deemed necessary to ensure the safety of the Indian populace during the initial waves of the pandemic. However, the situation has evolved, and the implementation of a new lockdown is more complex. The increasing number of cases has necessitated a more nuanced approach, with states and local authorities taking a more proactive role in managing the crisis.

The administration's decision to not extend the lockdown through a central announcement highlights the current phased approach to managing the pandemic. Initially, a national lockdown was a necessity to curb the spread of the virus. Now, with various states facing different levels of infection and varying capacities to handle the crisis, a blanket extension by the central government is no longer feasible. This approach allows for more flexibility and tailored responses at the local level.

Public Sentiment and Economic Concerns

The changing public sentiment towards lockdowns cannot be ignored. Initially, when business losses and job cuts were at an unprecedented high, the nation broadly supported stringent lockdown measures. However, as the situation has evolved, people are increasingly eager to return to work and economic activity. The frequent extensions of the lockdown, without a fresh declaration from the Prime Minister, have become the norm. This reflection of public sentiment is a significant factor in the government's decision-making process.

Many citizens and businesses are frustrated with the continuous cycles of lockdowns, which they view as a form of madness rather than a strategic necessity. The question of why the Prime Minister did not personally declare Lockdown 4.0 raises pertinent questions about the political calculus behind such decisions. Is it merely a strategic move to shield Modi from criticism, or does it reflect a broader understanding of what is best for the nation in the long run?

The ongoing saga of declaring a national lockdown underscores the complex interplay of political, economic, and public health considerations in managing a nationwide pandemic. As the situation continues to evolve, the role of Narendra Modi in shaping India's response to the pandemic will remain a subject of intense debate.