Gujarat: Dahod policeman puts duty before self

VADODARA: Even before the ashes of his brother’s pyre turned cold, police sub-inspector P K Jadav was back at his post, hiding emotions under the starched uniform to answer the call of duty.
During lockdown in the wake of the Covid-19 outbreak, tragedy struck Jadav, posted at the Garbada police station in Dahod district, when the news of the demise of his elder brother in Ahmedabad reached him.
Jadav, who was extensively involved in duties pertaining to the lockdown imposed by the state government, did not think twice before embarking on a seven-hour journey to and from Ahmedabad and attend the last rites in the remaining few hours.
On March 24, Jadav’s brother Hardevsinh (63) passed away at 3 am in Ahmedabad after prolonged illness. Jadav informed his seniors and left Garbada at around 5am for Ahmedabad, and rejoined duty at 3pm on the same day.
Also consider this, it takes around 3.5 hours to reach Ahmedabad from Garbada. Out of the around 10 hours that Jadav was out of Garbada, he spent around seven hours travelling.
Jadav’s commitment to duty did not go unnoticed as Gujarat chief minister Vijay Rupani appreciated the gesture in a tweet. Rupani also called up Jadav to appreciate him.
Talking to TOI, Jadav said, “I had to return because of the prevailing conditions due to the coronavirus outbreak. My family too understands that a policeman has to give priority to his duty.”
Jadav said that the cremation was attended by only a few close relatives owing to social distancing and lockdown. “We were looking to hold a ‘besna’ later, but the lockdown was extended till March 31. It may not be possible to hold it now,” he added.
Gujarat Police is actively involved in ensuring the lockdown in a success. The force is also trying to ensure that the supply of essential commodities is smooth and those living on the streets or shanties are supplied food, water and other essentials. Dahod police are also handling the mammoth task of ensuring workers from Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh reach home.