Gustakhi Maaf Haryana: Pawan Kumar Bansal

Murky Politics of Haryana: A Tribute to the Victims of the Dabwali Fire Tragedy

Gustakhi Maaf Haryana: Pawan Kumar Bansal

Murky Politics of Haryana: A Tribute to the Victims of the Dabwali Fire Tragedy

The Dabwali Fire Tragedy: A Day of Horror
Nearly three decades ago, a devastating fire broke out during the annual function of DAV School in Dabwali, Sirsa district, Haryana, claiming the lives of around five hundred people, including a large number of children. The fire, which struck during the event, left an indelible scar on the community. Shockingly, MP Bidlan, who was the chief guest of the event and the administrative head of the district, fled the scene instead of overseeing the rescue operations. This irresponsible act continues to haunt the families of the victims.

 

 

MP Bidlan’s Involvement and Controversial Appointment
Instead of facing accountability for his actions, Mr. MP Bidlan was later rewarded with a controversial political appointment. Under the leadership of then Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda, MP Bidlan was made a member of the Haryana Public Service Commission, a move that many viewed as adding insult to the injury of the victims. His appointment raised eyebrows, considering his failure to fulfill his responsibilities during the tragedy. Meanwhile, retired Haryana ADGP Anil Yadav, then a DSP in Dabwali, had suffered severe burns while attempting to rescue trapped children, exemplifying the true spirit of duty that MP Bidlan lacked.

Political Career: Bidlan’s Shift to BJP and Backlash
Two decades after the tragedy, MP Bidlan joined the BJP and sought the party ticket for the Sirsa reserved Lok Sabha constituency. However, his attempt to represent the area was met with strong protests from the victims’ families and the public, who were still grieving the tragedy. Following these protests, MP Bidlan was denied the party ticket. Despite this setback, then CM Bhupinder Singh Hooda appointed him to the Haryana Public Service Commission, reportedly hoping to secure caste-based votes for his son, Deepender Hooda, who was contesting the Rohtak Lok Sabha seat as a Congress candidate. MP Bidlan, being from Rohtak, was seen as a potential asset in this political strategy.

The Commission’s Findings: MP Bidlan’s Negligence
The T P Garg Commission, appointed on the orders of the Punjab and Haryana High Court, conducted an inquiry into the incident. The Commission found MP Bidlan “extremely negligent” in performing his duties as the Deputy Commissioner. Despite being present at the event as the chief guest, MP Bidlan did not sustain a single injury, highlighting his lack of involvement during the critical moments. The Commission held MP Bidlan vicariously liable for his negligence and ordered him to pay ten percent compensation to the victims’ families.

A Tribute to the Victims: Surbhi Manav Kalyan Trust’s Initiative
In memory of Surbhi, the young girl who lost her life in the tragedy, the Surbhi Manav Kalyan Trust organized a function to pay tribute to the victims. During the event, warm clothes and meals were distributed to those in need. Anil Kumar Rao’s family, including his son Vikram Rao, daughter-in-law Kirti Rao, and daughter Ruchika Rao, also attended and paid their respects to the victims, further honoring the memory of those lost in the tragic fire.

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