A family who had lost their mother and grandmother on the morning after Diwali in a house fire were yesterday overwhelmed with the presence of Assistant Minister for Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation Veena Bhatnagar.

The family of the late 61-year-old Anil Anjali had just completed their funeral rites when Ms Bhatnagar called in after making a special run from Suva.

“We were deeply honoured to have Ms Bhatnagar visit us and offer Government’s assistance,” Simon Raj, Ms Anjali’s son said.

Mr Raj escaped in the early morning inferno on Monday along with his son Devian, 5, and 60-year-old father Ramen.

Mr Ramen was discharged from hospital on Monday, after suffering some burns and inhaling smoke from the fire.

“We have a 13-day ritual coming up and the $1000 given by Mrs Bhatnagar from Government is really appreciated and will help immensely during the next couple of weeks,” Mr Raj said.

“Actually we were so surprised the Minister arrived so fast and our family will always be grateful for Government for this kind gesture.”

Ms Bhatnagar said the Government had given its condolences to the family, especially when they had lost a loved one just after Diwali.

“This is our duty to assist people who are in need like this family and the $1000 is a small gesture into helping them during this time of need,” Ms Bhatnagar said.

She said the $1000 was an immediate assistance and she had informed the family of other assistance that was being offered by Government for these cases.

Mr Ramend was advised by Mrs Bhatnagar to go for another check-up tomorrow at the Lautoka Hospital and to contact her if she was needed for any further assistance.

Edited by Rusiate Mataika

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