The second wave of the coronavirus infection is negatively affecting India, infecting millions of people and stressing the overtaxed health system.
The variant, B.1.617 - also known as "the double mutant"  is assumed to be responsible for the severity of the second wave, because it has more than two mutations. However, despite these devastating circumstances, the Modi government's policies are further worsening the crisis.
As the COVID cases increased, Mr. Modi allowed large gatherings, approved Hindu festivals with millions of worshipers, and campaigned in state elections without a mask. His administration was determined to create an image of India that suggested the country was back on track and open for business.

Scientists have warned that most of India's population remain unprotected from the pandemic, due to the shortage of oxygen, hospital equipment and resources. Due to the overwhelming increase in the number of new cases, Indian hospitals cannot deal with the demands for treatments, and many patients in cities have been abandoned to suffer and die. Although India is one of the world's leading vaccine manufacturers, only about 3% of the population has been fully vaccinated. This is due to the temporary closures of vaccination centers in Delhi and some other places.

To provide support, charities, volunteers, and businesses in India are actively trying to help COVID patients and frontline workers.

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