Azad, wife turn emotional after meeting a girl without legs

Srinagar, Jan 11 (UNI) Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad and his wife Shamima Azad turned emotional when they met Bazila, a primary student, who had lost both her legs in a road accident in June last year.

Mr Azad, who could not control his emotions after meeting her here, announced that the government will bear all expenses on her treatment.

He also sanctioned Rs 13 lakhs in her favour and directed the money to be deposited in her fixed deposit account in the bank.

''When I saw the photograph of Bazila in the file, I immediately asked officials to arrange a meeting with her,'' Mr Azad said, adding ''we all will pray to give her strength so that she could again play with her friends.'' He also directed Bazila's parents to bring her to his residence once in a month so that they could play with her for a full day.

Mr Azad's meeting had brought the happiest news to Bazila Nazir, a tiny tot from Daulatabad, Nawpora here, who as a 3rd primary student had met with a serious accident that cost her both legs.

On June 15, 2007, the little girl was hit by a passenger bus and dragged for several yards on the metallic road at Brein, Nishat.

The grievously injured Bazila was rushed to a hospital where both her legs had to be amputated to save her life.

Ever since, the family was living in desperation as doctors had told them that it would require several lakhs to make Bazila walk again. The family could not afford the expenses.

The case for the monetary assistance to meet the expenses on Bazila's treatment was under process in the Chief Minister's office and Mr Azad had desired to see the child during his next visit to Srinagar.

Shamima Azad, who was moved by the condition of the child, gave her lot of affection and love.

Mr Azad was informed that the treatment would cost Rs 13 lakhs in two phases. The second phase of the treatment would start when the girl reaches the age of 12.

Beyond the financial assistance that the government would provide the family, the Chief Minister assured the hapless father, a retired employee of Centaur Hotel here, that he would sponsor Bazila's full treatment in the years to come, irrespective of where he would be located and whatever position he be holding.

Bazila's father said he was now hopeful that his daughter would be able to walk again and live a normal life.

UNI BAS SHB DS1625