KALYAN: In a rare and emotionally charged moment in Kalyan’s civic politics, newly elected Shiv Sena corporator Vanita Duryodhan Patil chose to dedicate her victory to a party worker who was seriously injured while campaigning for her.After being elected on a Shiv Sena ticket, Vanita Patil accepted her official victory certificate not from an election officer, but from the hands of Tejas Patil, a party worker who is currently undergoing treatment at a private hospital. In a symbolic gesture, she credited both her victory and her own safety to the courage and presence of the injured worker.
The incident that led to Tejas Patil’s injuries occurred on the day of election campaigning on January 13. Tejas was standing near Vanita Patil’s campaign vehicle, holding the party flag, when the flag accidentally came into contact with a high-tension overhead wire. A strong electric current passed through the flag, creating a life-threatening situation. Reacting quickly, Tejas jumped off the vehicle, preventing the electric current from spreading to the vehicle. His swift action ensured that the candidate and several others nearby escaped unharmed.However, Tejas suffered severe injuries in the process, with both his hands badly burnt due to the electric shock. He was immediately shifted to a private hospital, where he continues to receive treatment. Vanita Patil has taken responsibility for all his medical expenses, describing it as her moral duty.Speaking to TOI, Vanita Patil said that Tejas not only saved lives but also embodied the spirit of dedication that defines grassroots politics. “Because of Tejas, our lives were saved. Workers like him are the real reason candidates win elections. That is why I felt it was right to accept my victory letter from his hands,” she said.Vanita Patil contested the Kalyan–Dombivli Municipal Corporation elections from Panel No. 2. The panel saw the victory of three Shiv Sena candidates and one BJP candidate. Her gesture has been widely appreciated within political and civic circles.
