MANY people in our society lack basic etiquettes as witnessed every day. While I was going to my office recently all dressed up in well-starched and ironed-out clothes, a helmetless motorcyclist conveniently spitted out directly on to my chest.

In a fit of fury, I raced up to overtake him and signalled him to pull over his bike. He apologised after an argument, but his ‘sorry’ only abated my anger, not my anguish.

The Covid-19 pandemic prohibits such gross actions all the more. Spitting in public places is not just ironic, but has become a health hazard as the deadly virus is spread through droplets. Since I was wearing a helmet with its visor down, I felt protected.

I urge the government to impose a ban on spitting in public places and fine those violating the rule. Awareness campaigns should also be run on media to discourage such uncivil acts.

M. Nadeem Nadir
Kasur

Published in Dawn, November 30th, 2020