By Ananya S Guha
Iam shocked to see that IPL is still going where people in India are dying like a Middle Ages plague. Yet the IPL continues without any spectators and there are simulated things like spectators’ applause recorded, which can be heard. What are we trying to do? Facsimiles of reality? So the BCCI and organisers are hell bent on continuing with the tournament.
Three or so players from different countries have withdrawn from the tournament, and rightly so. I don’t understand what the organisers are aiming at. Formats such as T 20 have undoubtedly made this sporting event exciting and growing in popularity. Earlier it was the 50 overs version.But in the midst of the tragedy unfolding in India with thousands of people dying everyday in India and the world, the corona virus has not only killed so many but devastated our civilisations.
Why can’t the IPL be called off in the midst of this tragedy?Many are asking for the same, and a popular English tv channel has debated on the same.The BCCI has responded by saying that the tournament will continue remaining adamantine as a rock.
Just next to the ground where now the games are conducted, there is a crematorium. While the players are exulting in notching high scores , or winning a game; death in its most tragic form is lurking nearby. People are dying because of lack of oxygen or not getting admissions into hospitals.This is redolent of death due to famines or plagues.
Nothing could be so sad and tragic like this.At least let us have some sense of ethics and compassion for not only those who are dying, but their near and dear ones as well. It is heart wrenching to see mass funerals and senior doctors or health care professionals breaking down.
