'Sparks' knock the sparkle out of his face

By K.V.Subramanya

BANGALORE, AUG. 5. Unable to clear the mounting bills and get his seven-year-old son discharged from the hospital, Mr. Krishna Murthy is running from pillar to post seeking financial assistance.

On June 18, Manu got his hands and face badly burnt when he was standing in the balcony of his house at Manjunathagar.

Nobody knew how it happened. As Mr. Krishna Murthy, a vegetable vendor, recollects: ``Manu was holding the iron railings of the balcony, and probably, sparks from a KPTCL's high-tension wire running in front of the house fell on him, causing serious burns.''

Manu was rushed to D.G.Hospital at Padmanabanagar. After doctors amputated his hands and conducted a plastic surgery, Manu is recovering now. The wounds are healing, but the deep scars on his tender face and forearms will remain forever.

Mr. Krishna Murthy, who is finding it difficult to clear the hospital bills which have already touched Rs. 2.5 lakhs, has taken a loan of Rs. 65,000. Philanthropists have donated Rs. 75,000 to him. But he needs Rs. 1 lakh more to get his son discharged from the hospital.

``The hospital authorities have promised me that they will give a discount on the bill. But still I can't clear the dues,'' he says.

Another reason for Mr. Krishna Murthy's worry is that even after Manu is discharged from the hospital, at least for the next six months he has to visit the hospital twice a week for treatment.

Though the Minister of State for Power, Mr. Veerkumar Patil, visited Manu on June 20, the Government has not given him financial help or compensation.

The KPTCL officials visited the spot and conducted an inquiry into the incident. But they could not find out how Manu suffered burns. The Magadi Road Police have registered a case.

Those interested in helping Manu can contact his father or uncle, Mr. Sri Hari, on ph: 3320075.

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Section  : Southern States
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