Amid the communal overtones being given by certain sections to the novel coronavirus pandemic in Jharkhand, a Twitter exchange between chief minister Hemant Soren and Ranchi deputy commissioner (DC) Ray Mahimapat Ray on Saturday highlighted how the virus can only be fought by unity.

“Keep distance but remain close to the heart,” Soren tweeted in Hindi in response to a tweet by Ray who, in his tweet, had informed about the heartfelt welcome the residents of Azad Basti in Ranchi gave to health workers and police personnel who had gone there to collect samples for novel coronavirus tests.

The minority residents of the locality applauded the team and also assured of all cooperation.

A short video clip showing the welcome also started making the rounds on social media.

“This enthusiasm makes us Jharkhandi,” Hemant tweeted in Hindi. “At this time of crisis, we have to remain united by becoming alert about the forces acting against social harmony, and about fake news and rumours.”