Citizens doing their bit

Candle light vigils, peace marches, human chains and citizen movements have mirrored Mumbai's mood after the gruesome 26/11 attacks.

But a group of young businessmen, who want to do more, have raised Rs 30 lakh to buy 100 bullet proof vests that they plan to buy and donate to the Mumbai Police.

"The police can fight the terrorist without fear when they feel protected and secure with proper bullet proof vests and body armour. Our friends and relatives just gave the cheques over the dinner table when we decided do something instead of blaming the government," said Kishore Luthria, CMD, Tian Group of Hotels.

Luthria himself is a victim of terror. His family once owned hotel Sea Rock that was among the 12 targets of the 1993 serial bomb blasts that rocked the city.

The hotel was extensively damaged and could never recover. And so Luthria got together with others to do his bit.

"We always talk about our rights but what about our fundamental duties?" said Tanya Chhabria, a contributor in the initiative.

This group decided to make a point, an expensive point.

"I have become an enlightened citizen and will not remain a passive mute spectator. It is time to act," said Samita Sawney, another contributor.

The group has given samples of bulletproof vests to the Police Department for its approval. The vests are similar to ones used by American and Israeli forces and cost about $500 a piece.

But their donation could buy them less than planned. The import of vests attracts import duty.

So they have written a letter to the state government asking for a waiver. Now with money in the bank, they are waiting for the government to act.

Content courtesy:Samachar.

Great initiative.Hope some thing like this could be done in every part of India and that we all contribute what ever we can to such noble endeavors.