Social worker dies in Shimla fire incident

Tribune News Service

Shimla, December 6

Writer and social worker Saroj Vashisht, who dedicated her life to the welfare of prisoners, died in a fire incident at her house in Vikasnagar today.

The octogenarian was alone at home when the fire broke out past mid-night. Her neighbours saw smoke billowing out of her house and informed the police.

“We received the call at 3.45 am and firemen reached the spot within 10 minutes,” said Chief Fire Officer Bhopal Chauhan.

The police and firemen found Saroj lying unconscious in the bathroom. She was rushed to the IGMC, where doctors declared her brought dead.

The LED, computer, printer, books, documents and other belongings were destroyed in the fire.

The fire did not spread to adjoining flats and a major tragedy was averted. The cause of fire could not be ascertained. It could be a short-circuit, said the police.

ASP Bhajan Dev Negi said it appeared that a short-circuit in the bedroom led to the fire. “The house was locked from inside and we broke open the lock to enter the house and found her unconscious in the bathroom,” he said.

Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh mourned the death of Saroj and lauded her contribution to society.

She remained in the Tihar jail in the 90s as a story-teller and published three poetry books authored by jail inmates. She also played an important role in encouraging the inmates to exhibit their hidden talent.