Tragic Electrocution of 12-Year-Old Boy in South Delhi Raises Safety Concerns

Ashan, a bright 12-year-old boy with aspirations of becoming a doctor, tragically lost his life after being electrocuted by a live wire from an electricity pole near his home. His father, Premchand, a migrant from Pakistan who trades scrap parts, blamed the electricity department for negligence. He cited a complaint filed in August about exposed wires in their south Delhi neighbourhood near Bhati Mines in Maidan Garhi.

According to Sikander, a resident of Sanjay Colony where the incident occurred, he had filed a complaint with the electricity department on August 19. He highlighted the risk of electrocution in the area but claimed no action was taken. "If the electricity department had taken action, Ashan might still be alive," said Sikander, who was among those who tried to rescue Ashan.

Incident Details and Immediate Response

A police officer reported that the incident happened on September 4 while Ashan was playing with friends near his house in Sanjay Colony. He came into contact with a live wire from a nearby electricity pole and was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he was declared dead. Sikander recounted hearing commotion and screams around 1.45 pm. When he went outside, he found Ashan stuck to an electric pole.

Using a wooden stick, Sikander managed to separate Ashan from the pole. He then massaged Ashan's hands and feet but saw no improvement. After informing Ashan's family, they took him to a nearby hospital where doctors declared him dead.

Community Reactions and Legal Actions

Premchand described his son as a bright student who was always eager to learn and participate in school activities. "He wanted to become a doctor," Premchand said, fighting back tears. The police have registered a case under Section 106(1) causing death by negligence of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) at Maidan Garhi Police Station. A probe is underway.

The autopsy of Ashan has been conducted, but the report is still awaited. The community remains in shock over the tragic loss of such a promising young life.