S Gopal Puri
Kangra: Life, they say, is a journey of struggles. But when that struggle begins at the tender age of four and three, it stops being just a hardship — it becomes a mirror for society.
In a quiet corner of Kangra district, two little children — Saksham (4) and Pareeksha (3) — are living a story that no child should ever have to.
A road accident just days ago claimed the lives of their parents, leaving behind a silence that now fills their home and the hearts of those who care for them.
For now, they live with their grandmother, Indira Devi, in a modest village house. The children still smile, unaware of the truth that would shatter their innocence.
“They think their mother has gone to get medicine, and their father is away for work,” says Indira Devi, holding back tears. “How can we tell them that their parents will never return?”
When innocence meets uncertainty
Saksham still waits by the door each evening, eyes lighting up at the sound of every passing vehicle. Little Pareeksha clings to her grandmother’s dupatta, asking why her mother hasn’t called yet. Their questions are simple, but the answers are impossible.
Their maternal uncle, Vishal Kumar, now shoulders the weight of an uncertain future. “The family is emotionally and financially shattered,” he says.
“We’ve applied for government relief, but the process is painfully slow. We’ve been told to prepare documents and visit offices — but when someone has just lost everything, even that feels like a mountain to climb.”
Sympathy delayed, reality ignored
In a state that prides itself on social welfare, this tragedy exposes the gaps that often lie between compassion and bureaucracy. Despite government claims of quick relief for vulnerable families, Vishal says no assistance has yet arrived.
“The system moves on files, not feelings,” he adds. “But for these children, every day without support is another day of struggle.”
Local residents echo his concern, urging both authorities and citizens to step forward. “They don’t need pity — they need partnership,” says a neighbor. “It’s time for society to prove that empathy is not extinct.”
A call for humanity
This story is not being told to relive the pain of loss — but to awaken the conscience of those who can make a difference. For Saksham and Pareeksha, tomorrow is still unwritten. Their laughter continues to fill the courtyard, a fragile reminder that hope somehow survives even in heartbreak.
Anyone who wishes to contribute can reach out through the family’s verified account:
🏦 Bank Name: HDFC Matour
🆔 IFSC: HDFC0006931
💳 Account No.: 50100707168941
👤 Account Holder: Vishal Kumar
📱 Google Pay: 7876005342
Because sometimes, the smallest act of kindness can bring light back to a house where time once stopped.
