Kamala Mills Fire: Constable Wins Applauds For Heroic Rescue

Mumbai: Constable Sudarshan Shinde, who put his life at stake to save some of those trapped in the fire at an upscale pub here last week, has been lauded for his exemplary courage by the Mumbai Police.

Mumbai Police Commissioner Dattatray Padsalgikar and Mayor Vishwanath Mahadeshwar felicitated Shinde for his efforts yesterday. A deadly blaze broke out at a pub in the Kamala Mills compound on Friday last, claiming 14 lives. According to police, Shinde, who was on patrolling duty nearby, rushed to the spot on getting information about the mishap. When some persons trapped inside the pub turned on the torchlights in their mobile phones, the policeman went inside in that direction. He then managed to rescue some of the unconscious persons by pulling them out on his shoulders, police said.

The mayor, while lauding Shinde's courage, said the constable did not care for his own life while discharging his duty. "You have shown indomitable will as well as bravery and therefore I, being the first citizen of the city, am proud of you. I along with the people of Mumbai acknowledge your heroic efforts," Mahadeshwar said in a letter of appreciation addressed to Shinde.

The constable, meanwhile, said he was happy that he was able to save some lives, but at the same time disheartened that 14 people died in the blaze. This was not the first time Shinde had risen to the occasion. In 2014, the constable rescued a man from drowning off Worli Seaface. Having joined the police force in 2005, his first posting was with Local Arms 3. “During my training period, I was taught to be brave and help the people in need. I have joined the force to help people,” he said.

The constable stays at BDD chawl at Worli with his parents, wife and a son. His father Shivaji is a retired assistant police-sub inspector. “My father was a very sincere policemen and I joined the force because of him,” he said.