Covid-19 Positive Mizoram Minister Sets Example by Moping Hospital Floor

Aizawl- Mizoram's power and electricity department minister R Lalzirliana was seen mopping the floors of a hospital on Friday, where he, his wife, and son are receiving treatment for COVID-19.

The minister's intervention was intended to set an example for others, not to shame medical personnel or authorities. 

"My motive in mopping the floors was not to embarrass the nurses or doctors but I want to educate and lead others by setting an example," Lalzirliana told PTI. 

He said that his room was messy, so he called the sweeper. However, the sweeper was unable to respond to his call, prompting him to complete the task himself, he explained.

"Sweeping, mopping the floors, or performing household chores are no new jobs to me. I used to do it at home and other places when it is required to do so," the minister said. He also added by saying that he does not consider himself to be above the common folks. 

He mentioned that sweeping and mopping the floors was not new to him as he is used to performing these chores at home and in other places. 

Mizoram had seen many instances of ministers denouncing the VIP culture associated with political elites and instead choose to live like a common man like doing household chores, traveling by public transport or motorcycle, engaging in community works, and serving as a cook for community feasts during festive seasons such as Christmas and New Year. 

On May 11, the 71-year-old Mizo National Front (MNF) chief and his wife Lalthangmawii (59) were both diagnosed with COVID-19 infection. On May 8, his son was also found to be infected with Covid-19. The three of them were placed in home isolation at first.

On May 12, when Lalzirliana's oxygen level dropped suddenly, they were transferred to the state's only dedicated COVID-19 hospital, Zoram Medical College (ZMC). The minister said that he has been experiencing mild symptoms since Thursday, but that he is no longer in danger and that his oxygen level is stable.

"We are fine here. The medical staff and nurses are taking good care of us," he said, adding that as a minister, he did not like being given VIP treatment. 

The minister, on the other hand, encouraged medical personnel and nurses to be courteous to coronavirus patients, stating that good treatment would have a positive effect on the patients. 

In the current Mizo National Front (MNF) government led by chief minister Zoramthanga, Lalzirliana holds the portfolios of arts and culture, land resources, soil and water conservation, and district council and minority affairs apart from the power and electricity ministry. 

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