Nagpur Police Intervene to Restore Power for Struggling Single Mother
In a heartening display of community support and administrative action, a 47-year-old single mother from Nagpur's Chinchbhuvan area has finally received an electricity connection after enduring more than two and a half months of darkness in her modest home. The breakthrough came on Sunday, following decisive intervention by the Beltarodi police station, which took up her cause during a dedicated grievance redressal initiative.
A Long Struggle Against Adversity
Surekha Masram, who works as a domestic help, has faced significant hardships. After being driven out of her family home by her husband's relatives, she raised her daughter single-handedly while living in a small hut. Her quest for a basic amenity like electricity became a protracted battle when the state electricity department refused her application. Officials cited an ongoing property dispute and demanded a court order before proceeding.
Undeterred, Surekha approached the court, which ruled in her favour and explicitly directed the department to provide the meter. However, even with the legal mandate, the process stalled. Sources indicate that electricity officials delayed the installation, reportedly fearing resistance from Surekha's estranged family members. This left Surekha and her daughter in a precarious situation, with the young girl unable to study at night due to the lack of proper lighting.
Police Step In During Grievance Redressal Day
The turning point arrived on Saturday during the 'Grievance Redressal Day' (Takraar Nivaaran Din) held at the Beltarodi Police Station. This event was organized on the instructions of Commissioner of Police Ravinder Singal and chaired by Deputy Commissioner of Police (Zone-4) Rashmitha Rao, with Senior Police Inspector Mukund Kawade overseeing the proceedings.
Among the 23 complaints addressed that day, Surekha's plea stood out for its simplicity and urgency. "While most grievances involved disputes, counselling, or legal actions, she simply sought police assistance to enforce the court order and ensure a safe meter installation," explained Inspector Kawade. Recognizing the critical nature of her request, DCP Rao immediately instructed officials to depute a beat constable to accompany Surekha. The officer was tasked with providing necessary protection and coordinating directly with the electricity department to facilitate the installation.
A Broader Commitment to Public Service
The grievance redressal session itself was a comprehensive effort, addressing a wide array of public concerns. Complaints included one forwarded from the Chief Minister's Office, two from the Guardian Minister's office, eleven from the CP's office, and nine registered locally at the station. After detailed hearings and enquiries, the police initiated appropriate actions ranging from counselling and mutual compromises to formal legal steps.
This incident underscores the vital role that proactive policing and structured grievance mechanisms can play in addressing citizens' basic needs. For Surekha Masram, the police intervention not only brought light to her home but also restored a sense of security and justice, enabling her daughter to pursue her education without further hindrance.
