Tarun Karthick
Port Blair, 13 December 2023
In a heart-wrenching incident, the untimely demise of G. Rajesh Rao, a 29-year-old resident of RCD Colony, Wimberlygunj, South Andaman, has ignited fury and demands for justice.
In a formal letter addressed to the Hon’ble Lt. Governor of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands and the Chief Secretary of the A&N Administration, Ajoy Bairagi, State President of BJP, A&N Islands, urgently called for an impartial investigation into the unfortunate incident and urged the swift provision of compensation to the bereaved family from the LG’s Relief Fund.
Mr. Bairagi in his letter informed that the incident unfolded on December 9, 2023, at approximately 11:28 AM during a physical test for the position of Mazdoor under the Forest Department at Rangat. G. Rajesh Rao, a candidate partaking in the test, succumbed to extreme heat while attempting to cover an 10-kilometer distance, ultimately collapsing due to a sunstroke. Rushed to C.H.C Rangat for immediate medical attention, Rao remained under hospital care until 2:30 PM. However, his condition deteriorated rapidly, necessitating urgent evacuation.
Shockingly, despite the medical officer at C.H.C Rangat sending a Signal for immediate evacuation via Police Radio at 2:30 PM, the signal reached the Director Health Service’s office at 4:30 PM, significantly delaying necessary actions, Mr. Ajoy Bairagi added. The Secretary Health and Principal Chief Conservator of Forests were also promptly informed of the critical situation.
Regrettably, owing to what has been termed as sheer negligence on the part of health service officials and a lack of coordination from the Department of Forest, air evacuation by helicopter was not initiated. Consequently, the gravely ill patient was transported by road to G.B. Pant Hospital in Port Blair around 5:00 PM. The gruelling journey via NH, notorious for its challenging conditions, further exacerbated Rao’s condition, leading to his passing at 7:30 AM the following day at G.B. Pant Hospital.
Ajoy Bairagi, in the letter, emphasized the urgency of an impartial inquiry to identify culpability and ensure appropriate punitive measures against those found responsible for the perceived negligence. Moreover, he implored immediate compensation from the Hon’ble LG’s Relief Fund for the grieving family of late G. Rajesh Rao, offering solace during this harrowing period of loss and anguish.
The demand for a swift investigation and compensatory measures has garnered widespread support, emphasizing the need for accountability and justice in cases of alleged negligence resulting in tragic loss of life. Authorities are yet to respond to the calls for an investigation and compensation.