Addressing an Unfortunate Incident: A Resolution Reached
Dear Colleagues and Friends,
I wish to report an incident that occurred to me this weekend.
I received a parcel from an online shopping platform within the country, but the customer service informed me that there was a tax payment required. On April 12th, the delivery person from Shiprocket named Bhaskar arrived at my place. When I attempted to communicate my needs as a deafblind individual, he refused to accept my message and pushed away the phone, insisting on immediate payment. I went in to pay and it took a little time. He entered without my knowledge or permission and tried to grab the parcel from me. I was shocked and questioned why he entered my home without my permission and did not show respect for my condition. I attempted to capture the incident with my camera, but he grabbed the parcel back and physically assaulted me repeatedly, hitting, twisting and scratching. After a struggle, I managed to push him out. Despite my attempts to pay the tax using my UPI, the transaction failed three times. Eventually, I successfully completed the payment, he gave me the parcel and left.
The same evening, I lodged a complaint with the police. I was assisted by officers Veermani and Durimurugan, who mentioned the need for CCTV evidence. I promptly provided them with CCTV footage, which supported my account. They requested a witness, and I arranged for someone to accompany me. Additionally, I sought medical attention at the hospital due to injuries sustained during the altercation. The doctor confirmed my injuries to the police.
On April 13th, I attended the SLDAA (St. Louis Deaf Association Alumnae) meeting for the Minutes of the Executive Committee and Board Meeting, which concluded after 3 pm.
At the recommendation of Dr. Namita that evening, I visited the police station. I was accompanied by Dr. Namita, Sudha and three Advocates Ummul, Gopi, and Nifies. We met with Inspector P. Bharathidasan. The police were ready to arrest him, but as he was a first time offender and the father of two young children, the inspector asked us to consider another option.
The police took strict action against the delivery person, who expressed remorse for his actions and agreed never come near my building again and to pay the fine. He also provided a written assurance to respect people with disabilities in the future. We submitted a formal complaint to the police, and the matter was resolved satisfactorily the very next day.
I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Namita for her support throughout this ordeal.
Best Regards,
Lion Sunil Abbas
Generat Secretary of SEDB India
