What Happened to Civic Volunteer Pankaj Barman During Training?
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Kolkata, Feb 9 (NationPress) A civic volunteer tragically lost his life while participating in a training programme in Fulbari, located in the Jalpaiguri district of north Bengal, as reported by the police on Monday.
The unfortunate individual has been named as Pankaj Barman, who was serving at the Mathabhanga Police Station in Cooch Behar district. He had traveled to the 12th Battalion for a six-day training camp in Fulbari, where he passed away.
Police sources indicate that Pankaj suffered a heart attack late Sunday night. The sentry on duty was alerted and subsequently notified his superiors. Several colleagues have raised concerns about the absence of immediate medical assistance, claiming that his death was due to a lack of timely care.
In response to this incident, fellow civic volunteers have expressed their outrage. On Monday, a group of trainees organized a protest within the police camp, heightening the tension in the area. They are calling for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding Pankaj’s death.
A number of civic volunteers from various districts had gathered in Fulbari for training at the 12th Battalion. Pankaj, a civic volunteer from Mathabhanga, became ill on Sunday night, and his colleagues found him unwell the following morning.
Despite urgent requests for a doctor and an ambulance, no medical help arrived. Although there were numerous vehicles at the barracks and several nursing homes nearby, Pankaj did not receive prompt treatment and sadly passed away at the police barracks. His colleagues have conducted multiple protests, demanding accountability.
Pankaj’s family reached Fulbari after being informed of his passing and echoed similar concerns regarding the lack of medical assistance. His brother-in-law shared with local reporters, 'There are nursing homes in close vicinity, yet he was not taken there. No doctor attended to him. He has a younger brother, and with our parents gone, we don't know how he will cope now.'
The police are currently investigating the incident and have begun questioning individuals involved in the training camp.