SHADY NGOS GIVE CORONA WARRIOR CERTIFICATES

As we have been writing, many unknown NGOS, shady self-styled social, political activists, minority groups, media unions and wheeler-dealers have cropped up to oblige anyone willing to shell out a hefty sum—sometimes also for free—for a “certificate of appreciation” or “dedication” or “kindness” for becoming a “Corona Warrior”. One such organisation has now issued a free “Corona Warrior” certificate for Prime Minister Narendra Modi, obviously, without his consent. This has been done by an unheard of Noida-based social and cultural organisation has “honoured” PM Modi by “giving” him a “Corona Senani Samman Patra”. This certificate in Hindi carries a picture of smiling Modi. The certificate’s citation reads (in English translation): “At the time of coronavirus pandemic, Prime Minister Narendra Modi Ji you have set up an example of unparalleled standards in the service of the humankind. You have worked like a warrior. We wish you a great bright future and facilitate you with this ‘Corona Warrior Samman Patra’.” The certificate has been signed by “International Chairman” of an unknown “Parishad”. Interestingly, the “Parishad” has issued the same “Samman Patras” to many others, including the District Commissioner of Gautam Budh Nagar, police officers and journalists.

Many similar certificates issued by other organisations bear the four-lion State Emblem of India, logo of the

World Health Organization or logo of Mygov and Fit India movements. Some organizations claim that they are “affiliated” to Union ministries. The idea is to give a general impression that these certificates are official, which they are not.