‘Staying positive key to defeat virus'

Bikramjit Singh, a constable posted at the Faizpura police chowki, said it was family support and the Almighty's grace that helped him recover from Covid-19.

“Staying in a positive frame of mind is the mantra to defeat the deadly virus. We should not let the negative thoughts creep in," he said.

Bikramjit contracted the disease on duty. One of his colleagues in the Faizpura Chowki lost his battle to the virus while chowki in-charge was also hospitalised due to severe chest infection, though he had not contracted the disease.

"I had cough problem. But when my colleague collapsed and chowki in-charge was hospitalised the entire staff was medically examined. I tested positive on the third day of the test conducted by health authorities," he said.

Initially, I was worried for my family and for my minor daughter. I was repeatedly getting calls from health authorities from here and Chandigarh which was causing anxiety. Later, I was allowed home quarantine for 17 days.

“All things suddenly changed after my colleague died of the virus and I tested positive. I know it was going to be difficult times, but I was mentally prepared. You know Punjab Police personnel were at the forefront during the unprecedented health crisis we are facing," Bikramjit said.

“It was very depressing when you cannot talk to your family members and you are contained in one room for a long time. I am a religious person, therefore it was my daily routine to pray to the Almighty," he said.

“Besides I used to do exercises daily to keep myself mentally and physically strong to fight the virus. My family used to talk to me from a distance which also helped me in diverting my mind and remain in a positive frame of mind,” he said.