Vichhoda by Harinder Sikka

Author:Harinder Sikka
Language: eng
Format: epub
ISBN: 9789353057015
Publisher: Penguin Random House India Private Limited
Published: 2019-11-06T16:00:00+00:00

Khem Karan

Shelling on the Punjab border intensified with every passing day. At the army’s request, some villagers in surrounding areas began evacuating their houses, but a large number refused to move out. ‘It’s still peaceful out here, no bombing,’ they insisted. ‘When it gets out of control, we will shift,’ said the panchayat chief in a firm tone. ‘We will stand guard too and help you,’ said others with patriotic fervour.

The army tried its best but failed to convince them to change their mind. This news reached Bibi’s ears. She saw the delicate situation and decided to step in. Secrecy of her going to the villages was maintained but whispers travelled faster than Bibi’s jeep, carrying the saga of her bravery. As she stepped into the large compound where the villagers had gathered, the atmosphere became joyous. Her radiant face and genial smile endeared her to all immediately—men stood up and clapped appreciatively while children danced about her. Many touched her out of curiosity or just to feel her skin. The womenfolk garlanded her and sang songs of welcome typical to their region. It seemed like the people of Khem Karan were overjoyed to find the fighter Bibi Amrit Kaur amidst them.

She hugged the women and acknowledged their warmth with smiles. Escorted by her guards, she sat on a big cot that the villagers had cleared for her and folded her hands. The noise and the milling around continued till she settled down. It was clear that even though they had defied the army’s request, they were moved by her concern for them and a bit surprised that a serving general’s wife had personally taken the trouble to drive down for the sake of their safety. Bibi, in turn, found herself reciprocating the love she had received from the villagers. She had some local snacks that were served and shook hands with young girls who were seated in the front rows.

After a good fifteen minutes of pleasantries, she began to address them. There was grace in her voice and care in her expressions. She talked about how their being in their homes would be an added worry for the army, about how the army could not spread itself thin. She then urged them to move into the army school. ‘I admire your decision to stay put in your village,’ she said. ‘But till the time the situation remains uncertain and dangerous, please stay in the school compound which will be manned by army guards. We will ensure a supply of water, food and other basic amenities.’ After completing her appeal, she waited for their response.

The panchayat chief was the first to speak. To the surprise of the escorting subedar and guards, he agreed to her request without any ‘ifs and buts’ and thanked her for showering the village with care and concern. He also said that if this helped the cause of the army, then so be it. The meeting ended before it could even begin properly. But the villagers were in no mood to let her go back yet.

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