One day I was surfing on net and suddenly the popup came out from some site saying "30 destination you should visit before you die". It hit my instinct, and I clicked on the link. Few destinations were already covered by me, few were too far or not found much interesting to me. One of the place strike to my mind was Bhutan.
That night I went to home and told my husband Sandip that we should go to Bhutan. He knew me and he said "OK,will go there." and continued his work. But the place clicked to me so deeply that I was really importuning Sandip to plan the trip. I searched on Bhutan tourism site and contacted few agents too. Finally Sandip also took part in this. We found good tour guide and planned a trip in such a way that we can cover almost entire Bhutan. We planned to enter to Bhutan from Samdrup Zonkhar, which is a small town on the indo-bhutan border and visit all major towns and then come to India from Phuntosheling. Trip was from 1st Oct 2015 to 11th Oct 2015. The plan given by one of the tour guide who was really good. His name was Sangey. He ensure us he will try to cover as much as he can during these 10 days. And his plan was really excellent and as follows:
Day 1: Go to SamdrupJhongkhar and local visit.
Day 2: SamdrupJhongkhar to TrashiGang.
Day 3: Trashi gang to monger.
Day 4: Monger to Bumthang.
Day 5: Bumthang local.
Day 6: Bumthang to Phobjikha.
Day 7: Phobjikha to Thimphu.
Day 8: Thimphu to Paro
Day 9: Paro local
Day 10: Paro to Phuntsholing
Day 4: Monger to Bumthang.
Day 5: Bumthang local.
Day 6: Bumthang to Phobjikha.
Day 7: Phobjikha to Thimphu.
Day 8: Thimphu to Paro
Day 9: Paro local
Day 10: Paro to Phuntsholing
One of our friend Mr. Ashish Joshi, his wife Prajakta and daughter Gargi were also accompanying us. We all were so excited. I did loads of shopping for this trip. All flight bookings were also done. We have planned to Guwahati via Mumbai and from Guwahati hire a cab till Samdrup Jhonkhar which is just approx 102km from there. Everything was as per the plan. But out of the blue Prajakta, (Mrs Joshi) got sick and doctor advised her to go through the operation immediately. Now we were in dilemma to cancel/postpone the trip or continue the trip alone. And we opted the second option.
I was waiting for "The" day to come. We have packed up our bags, documents and all eatables for the trip. I have prepared "shankarpali" one of the favourite snacks of my daughter Jai and also prepared parathe for one meal during the trip. Don't know why but I was bit skeptic about the trip.
We both did work from home on 30th Sept. 2015. We were be going to the Mumbai by bus. Our bus was on 30th late night at 12.30 PM. Our friend Ashish Joshi came to drop us to the bus stop. We locked home and then sit in the car, after some distance suddenly Sandip realized that he forgot the laptop charger. We were carrying laptop for the coping the photos as Sandip had planned to take lot of photos. Fortunately we were close to the home so he run back and took the charger and returned. This took few minutes and we thought we might miss the bus. After some distance Sandip again realize that he forgot his jacket too. I gave him thunderous look. Then he calmly said "Don't worry! will buy a new one from there."
We reached to the stop. There some "Scene" was going on. Few policemen and 2 guys were involved. police caught the car driver who was giving lift to the other person till Mumbai. One of the Police Inspector un-necessary victimizing and scolding them for this. He was using such bad words that Sandip asked me to be remain seated in the car till bus arrives.
Bus came and we settled down on our seats. To be my surprise Sandip said "Dhanu, I have bad case of jitters for this trip. We did so many trips alone this never happened to me." and I told him," OMG, same here. I was about to tell you this but don't know what you feel so kept my mouth shut". Then obviously as his own style he mischievously said," Better" and he sighed. I replied "You are so wicked.."
Later I tried to sleep but I couldn't. Sandip and Jai both were asleep. At Lonavala I bought some snacks, chikki and famous tamrind candies for Jai. Later I took a nap till we reach Mumbai. We get down near airport and from there we hire a rickshaw and reached to Airport. It was only 4.30 and we had flight at 7.25 AM. On airport Jai also awake. I got fresh at airport and ask Sandip to take a nap. I was reading a book till then.
Day 1:
At 5.30 am the check in counter opened. We checked-in our luggage. Since the luggage was checked-in, I was now a free bird. I took a small tour of air port. I was observing people around me. One person was very tensed as he missed his flight, one girl was in tears while seeing of her parents. Kids were enthusiastic about there planned trip. As a girl I was observing few ladies who adorn themselves at so early morning.I said to my self, "oh, come on! its just a 5.30 AM to get ready with this makeup they might not even sleep in the night."
Sandip's gaze was fixed on one of the girl who was also dolled herself up, when I caught him he changed his sight.
Sandip (With wink): Oh,I thought it was you only as everywhere I see you only.
I (with sham anger): You should improve your acting skills. :)
Jai was also now awake and then she was hungry. I gave her snacks which I have bought from Lonavala.
By the time now security check-in signals were on. We did security check-ins. As watched pot never boils boarding sign was also not coming. After the longggggggg wait finally got the boarding signs on the board. When we were in the bus which was taking us near to the flight, few passengers were discussing their travel plan, that from Guwahati they are going to Gangtok.
"Gangtok" Suddenly bell alarms to my mind.It would be my another trip destination. I told Sandip that we will plan our next trip to Gangtok. As there was no option he said only "OK Boss."
As usual Jai took window seat, Sandip middle and I took the last seat. I tried hard to read but I was so tired I slept immediately.
At 10.30 Our plane landed to the Guwahati and we were just 100 kms away from Himalayan Country. Our cab driver was came there to pick-up us on the airport. We were about to sit in the car suddenly he told that there was one more person his friend also coming with us. We were little doubtful so contacted cab owner, who told us that the person is reliable and he is accompanying as while returning the driver will be alone and the area we were passing by is not safe specially in the evenings. We were fine with the new company. Both the cab driver and his friend were genuine people. Cab driver name was Gopal and his friend was Saurav.
We were chatting with them. They were giving information about the local people, their culture and the food. Sandip asked Gopal to stop at ICICI bank ATM as we want to withdraw some cash. All of us were looking for ATM till the time we pass through IIT campus of Guwahati. Now we were already out of the city and reached to the main highway. Our driver told that now we have already crossed the city and may be in the next town we will get the ATM.
Finally in the next town we got the ICICI ATM. We, specially Jai was hungry. There were some small tea stalls so I said lets have small tea break there only. But Saurav said its not very hygienic so we moved ahead. But later Jai was very hungry so we have to take halt at one dhaba. The Dhaba name was Lucky Dhaba. Gapal and Saurav, both were reluctant to stop there but we only insisted. While getting down we took one bag with us as it contains laptop, passports and cash. Though the Dhaba name was Lucky Dhaba for us it was bad lucky dhaba. Because from here things dramatically changed.
We actually want to eat snacks but there was no options available so we did brunch. The food was not good somehow I managed to finished my plate. The order food came too late so we have not waited for bill and directly go the counter to pay the bill. We paid the bill and sat into the car. Just after 2-3 kms we realized that we have forgot our bag at the dhaba only. Sandip immediately told driver to go back to dhaba. He was very tensed. Myself and driver was trying to cool down Sandip. When we reached to dhaba and inquired about our bag dhaba owner said he don't know anything about the bag. His hands were shaking. Sandip was skeptical about him. He told us that after us two people came and had food and left. They might have taken our bag.
But we were not convinced as we were back only in 10-15 mins, and when we left dhaba there was no one except us. I told Sandip if we assume what he is saying is true, but in reality how its possible that people came, order food and finish it in just 15 mins? Now I was also sure that this bugger is lying. I was in tears as our cash, passport and very important visa also in that bag.
We were pleading the owner, also we offered him money. But he was not ready to return the bag. By his gesture one can easily could have make out that he is the only THIEF.
We tried calling police but 100 number was not reachable. So Sandip and our driver went to the police station which was almost 10 kms from the place. I, Jai and Saurav stayed back. Sandip was reluctant to leave us but I assured him that I will take care of myself and Jai.
When Sandip left I called my brother Ajit and explain the incident happen with us. He was also shocked. He asked me to calm down and stay alert. But I ensured him and my family that we are safe as they were worrying about us. One of his colleague was from Guwahati, he said me if he will check with him and arrange some help. His words really act as pillar for me. I took a grip of myself. And looked around and you know, what Jai was doing?My little sweetheart Jai searched the bag, at all the places even in the toilets. Even this situation too, I was impressed by her presence of mind.
I was observing the hotel owner. I asked Sourav to translate what he was speaking in Asami. Sourav ask me to communicate in English as hotel owner don't understand it. Jai was now running out of her patience, and with her innocence she was asking me why hotel owner is holding our bag and not allowing us to go to Bhutan. I was so helpless and not having answer of her questions.
Almost 30 mins or more Sandip arrived with police. I was also requesting policemen to help us. But police were inquiring very calmly to that hotel owner.
They searched dhaba but didn't found anything. I thought in my mind that police should give a tight slap to the thief then only he will agree, however nothing happen as per my expectation. I was very worried. Sandip also was very tensed. But we were insisting that he is the only thief and we have doubt on him. So police took the dhaba owner and his assistant to the police station. While going to the police station he didn't have any fear on his face, rather he was very cool. If he would have not committed the crime he would have resisted to the police but he immediately agree to go to police station. I told police that from his behavior common person like us also can make out that he is the only culprit. As a police you might have faced many criminals so you could easily judge that he is the criminal then why are you so calm and generic to him? Police silently listen and took him to police station. In our car we also followed them. And we went to Changsari police station.
We directly went to the in-charge of the police station named Govinda Pathak (name changed). He was talking in generously with us. He knew little bit of English and Hindi well. He told that his brother was a genuine person and helped police in many cases etc. He was giving all such crap information which we are not interested in. We were still keeping our cool. Finally I got call from my brother and his Guwahati friend called the police commissioner and send commissioner's personal phone number for further help. I showed that message to the police and suddenly one inspector from other police station came and first ask us what happened. We again narrated story to him. He ask us why you people have not taken care of your bag. We accepted our mistake. Later he gave tight slap to the hotel owner's assistant. The assistant was a little younger. Inspector continued to scold him and hitting him. Looking at that scene Jai got very scared and started crying. I took her with me and came out of the cabin. Suddenly I hear a cheer from all police that they found a bag. Hotel owner is the only thief and hide that bag to his neighbour's place. I took a sigh of relief. Police didn't allow us to recover the bag saying there might be security threat. After some time police returned with the bag. All the valuables were there except the 30K cash was missing. Again we were in trouble. My brother and other relative called us and said that whatever you get please take and stop that matter there only. But police were forcing us to file the FIR. We were caught between rock and hard place. We told police that if we file a FIR then we have to take the bag from court and as next day is 2nd Oct it will be holiday for the court. But Govinda Pathak assures us that they can request the judge and as you are tourist, the case can be consider as emergency. He also said that he have a lawyer friend who will only charge Rs.500 and give our bag back. And there we took wrong decision. We filed a FIR. That was our second big mistake. He said that crime happened under Changsari police station which comes under Rangia jurisdiction. Rangia is the small town which is 50 km from Guwahati.
Changsari was not a very civilized place so we decided to stay in Guwahati only. And to go to Rangia we dont have other commuting vehicle so we decided to keep the same cab.
We returned to Guwahati. Gopal and Saurav helped us to find a good hotel. We never knew that trip will take this turn. Later we went to small tea stall and there we were further chatting with Gopal and Saurav. They were suggesting to go to media but we were not sure what to do?. The big question arose infront of us was "WHAT NEXT??".
Our family members were worried about our safety. They were continuously calling us. I completely broke down when I talked to my mom.
After having tea we went to room we silently ate the parathas which I have packed up with us. While eating a thought came to my mind, if we would have ate these parathas we could have avoid this incident.Suddenly Sandip's phone rang, the call was from one of the relative of that thief. He was asking to settle down the case, they were ready to pay us 30k. Initially we were confused what to do, but Sandip told him to come to police station next morning with cash and then only he will talk to him. Little ray of hope we now had.
We spend whole night in tossing and turning. In the mean while the tour agent Sangey was also following up with us. He was also worried about us. He told that if we can get the bag on 2nd Oct we can still have the same trip as planned.
Day 2:
The next day morning we got ready. My father advised us to go to some temple. And in Guwahati there is a very famous temple of Kamakhya Devi. This temple is situated on the hill. From the top of the hill you can have splendid view of the city. First we went to top of the hill click photos. There on the hill top there was one more temple. We went there. Later we come down and went to Kamakhya temple. But since there was a big queue we only did a mukh darshan.
After taking darshan we went back to the Changsari police station. Gopal and Saurav were with us. At police station thief's relatives were there. One of the lady came to me and request me to take the case back. She was in tears. That time I was also in tears. I replied her back that how he spoiled our trip and why he did such thing with us? She remained silent.
Later one of his relative came and ask us to settle down the case. But police somehow was not ready. They didn't made this happen. So we went to Court. Every time Sandip was pushing the demons (all policemen and the other government servants). After getting the bag we have to go to Bhutan after all. But nobody cared about, initially the thief's medical test was done. There doctor were not available, All these dumb fellows were kept waiting for doctor. Sandip went to the doctor house and narrated our story and request him to come early so that we can get out of this.
Doctor helped us. Later same thing happen in court as it was a court's holiday people came as per their convenience. Our lawyer as well as the thief lawyer also came. The opposite party lawyer was quite smart but cunning like fox. He took all information from us. In all this suffering the most non-tolerable thing was police were very friendly to that thief. They were chatting, having tea together.
Later Clark of the court came, our lawyer said that we have to file a petition about the custody of our bag.
In between Sandip asked our lawyer that whats the procedure. He told that now today we will file a petition for the custody of the bag then the case against the thief will appear in the court then that time and whenever the court calls you for the witness you have to come. We were again in trauma, because from Pune its highly not possible to go Guwahati. Sandip told him do whatever but do something that we need not to come in the court again and again.
Now the magistrate of the court came. Some discussion happened between her, our laywer and the opposite party lawyer. We are not allowed to go in side her cabin. Later she called accused, but we are still out. After some time our lawyer came out. He said that our petition was approved by the magistrate but today you can't get the bag as she is the magistrate of the other court and she can't give the order to return the bag. This was new shock for us. We requested him that please allow us to meet magistrate. She accepted to meet us. We requested her, we narrated the story. We thought she will help us but our meeting with her was very disappointing. She was very rude to us. And I got very frustrated the treatment we are getting. I was crying like anything.
I was totally devastated, I din't have much expectation from police. But magistate is highly qualified person. They have some extra powers. They can use these powers in genuine cases. I was surprised why she has not used that power? I guess this was not enough though when we were talking to our lawyer, he told that for petition of custody and that to close the matter he will charged 30000 rupees. I thought whole world is revolving around me. Police, thief were both illiterate. But highly educated people are also cheating us. Those are part of system. When we meet this lawyer an hour back he behaved such good with us. And later he is charging us 30k. I told Sandip that tell him that we will think. Don't commit anything.
We left the place and return back to Guwahati. Now we discussed this matter to our hotel manager. He told that he has some good relation with good high court judge. Even that judge is not charging this much fees, reasonable amount is max 5 to 8K. We called that judge and seek help from him. Initially he said that he is busy but later he said that he will send his junior with us.
That day was also wasted. We called up the Bhutan tour operator Sangey that we have to cancel the trip and we are ready to pay all the cancellation charges.
Both Gopal and Saurav were with us for full day. They were helping us with talking to people, translating. That the theif is big shame to Assami people. They said that generally Aasami person is very generous to guests and you people are our guest but now you are in such situation.
Day 3:
Now again next day came. It was Saturday 3rd October. Now that day I didn't kept any expectation. I told Sandip too that we should prepare ourselves that today also we might not get bag. but Sandip was sure that today we will definitely get a bag. I told him hope for the best but prepare for the worst.
We took the junior lawyer of the high court lawyer. When we were in journey to the court he said that the Changsari police station in-charge is not a good person. He was the most corrupt and greedy person. Also the story that police officer told about the hotel owner's brother was totally false. He was the local goon of that area. And illegal liqour seller. He was giving regular "hafta" to the police. Now we are getting some idea. We were assuming that 30k from bag is stolen by the thief. But we cant deny other possibility too. Though as we don't have proof we kept our mouth shut.
Full day we were in the court. For court hearing and prosecution in that particular court we were not allowed to go.All communication and legal formalities happen from lawyer and the magistrate. This was new to us. At 4'o clock our current lawyer and lawyer of previous day came out with some letter in the hand. We thought we got the order. But our previous lawyer came to us and said," Dekha, Guwahati se lawyer laye na aap dekha natija" (You took lawyer from Guwahati, see the result..). We didn't understood what happened. Our lawyer showed us the order of a court it was for police and now court wants a detailed report from police that this bag belongs to Sandip Pawar. but then we questioned him that but yesterday that bugger was saying that your petition is approved and you will get bag tomorrow. Then our lawyer took us to the registrar and in that register there was no entry that yesterday Mr. Sandip Pawar came to to court and filed a petition. We were again completely shaken. This was biggest shock for us. More than loosing money I was annoyed because of being betrayed again and again. We were victim of our corrupt system.
The registrar was helpful. Knowing our case and matter in the letter he allowed to give the letter by hand to police station. Fortunately that corrupt person(Pathak) was not there. So that time office in-charge was another person. His name was Abdul Sayyad(Name change). He assured that he will give a detail report on Monday. And he knew our case so he was ready to help as far as he can. We offered him money but he denied and said he will accept after you get the bag.
Next day was Sunday so that night I told Sandip we are not sure how many days we have to stay here. So please move to cheaper hotel. That day we searched around near area. Later we found another hotel so we shifted to that hotel just for thinking security reason. At least we thought that Jai will enjoy. And we also have some change. Another advantage to move there was we got internet connection, and we could talk to family members easily and without roaming charges.
Day 4:
Next day it was Sunday and we really had nothing that just to wait into hotel. However Jai was crying and saying we are just sitting ideal and not doing anyting. Have we came here for this. She was absulately logical and right however we were still not in the mood. But looking at her we changed our mind and agree to go out. We thought visit to a zoo in Guwahati would be better place for Jai to enjoy. That day we decided not to call a cab. As a cab owner was charging us 2000 per day. At least we could save some amount. We went by bus. In between my father gave me number of another high court lawyer, who was my uncle's good friend's friend. My father told he is the one at least you can trust. We called him. His name was Shabbir Ahmad. After visiting zoo we called him, He came to pick us. He asked the details. He asked us not to worry. Within few mins he was very friendly to us. After meeting him we were also feeling relaxed. He took us to his home. He introduced us to his wife Meer Alam Ara and his cute daughter Shagufta. After long time Jai got someone to play so she was very happy.
Shabbir bhai explained us the procedure. Actually we have to file just two petitions one for the custody of the bag and another one is that saying as we received our bag we don't want further involvement in the case however court can continue the investigation. He has done most of education from Maharashtra. That time he lived in Pune and A.Nagar. He shared lot of his memories with us.
He invited us for dinner next day and also came to drop us to hotel. After meeting him we were so relaxed and sense of security.
Day 5
Next day Sandip received call from the police in-charge Mr. Abdul. He said that the report is ready and he will send it to the court directly. We went to court again. As we had some time I was taking study of Jai. As after our trip immediately her exams were there. By 2'o clock we got the order from Court that Police can return the bag to us. We paid the charges to the advocate. But for second petition we said don't file that petition immediately. If we file that petition that accused would have been free. So we said when we get a notice from the court then only file that second petition. As we have paid him for both the petition he was agree to do that. After getting the order we went to police station. The in-charge helped us. He returned the bag and completed all formality. I don't want to pay the bribe so I rushed up in the car. And didn't gave anything to the police in-charge though Sandip wanted to give him. I said I would have happily gave if we didn't have to bear tons of mental torture. Though he is good and helped us. But he has done his duty and Govt. is paying him. Why we pay extra. So without giving any penny token we returned.
After this we met to the cab owner, Debu Das who is boss of Gopal. We had flight bookings on the last day of the original planned trip. So we still had 5 more days.He said as you got the bag for remaining day you can go for small trip to Darjeeling and Gangtok. He said he will do the bookings as he has all transport business. He was charging us 32k which include hotel stay and transport by private vehicle. We thought it a bit expensive. So we told him we will have a thought on this. If we have to go for this trip we have to go to Siligudi and for Siligudi train bookings should be done immidiately. As I don't want to stay in Guwahati I said do the train bookings for Siligudy and for the rest of the trip we will decide later. He said Ok.
Later I told Sandip that in Siligudy my brother's friend is there. If we don't go to Darjeeling or Gangtok we can spend time in Siligudy. So that's the reason I asked him to do train bookings.
Then we went to market and took gift for Gopal and Saurav's kids and Shagufta. At same night we said Adieu to Saurav and Gopal.
In night we went to Shabbir bhai's home for dinner. Alam Ara prepared a delicious meal for us. She cooked non-veg for Sandip and vegetarian food for me.
Our frequencies matched up immediately and very soon we became friends. After dinner we say good bye and returned to hotel.
Day 6:
Next day we woke up bit late. It was our last day in Guwahati. My brother gave me the another travel agent contact. When we called him he offered a very good package of Darjeeling and Gangtok including food, hotel stay and transport by private vehicle. The package cost only 24k including all taxes. So we confirm it immediately. Then we call Debu Das and said that we will not going to any trip. But he insisted that he wants to meet in person. Also we have some dues of his cab service so we said that we will finalized all in the evening.
We had train at 7.45 pm so we thought to visit few places in Guwahati. We went to Umananda temple which is in the island of Brahmputra river. Within one hour we covered that. We atleast 4-5 more hours. So we went to Kalakhetra, which is cultural musium in Guwahati. By bus it took 1.5 hrs to went there. In Guwahati bus service is good. Private and public buses run there. So transport is really good. In buses also for ladies and gents seating arrangement is different. My husband and Jai were sitting in the gents row. At one bus stop one person came and sat next to me. I felt little awkward.My husband said to him that there are lots of free seats available in gents row why you are sitting there. He arrogantly said why you are bothered? My husband coolly replied the lady sitting beside you is my wife and my child wants to sit next to her.
He then shifted his seat but he continuously staring to me. Soon in next 10 mins our stop came and we get down.
We took the entry ticket. The museum was really big. There was different section for music, photography etc. We visited many section then we went to kids section. There toy train was there. My daughter wants to sit in in that. The toy train was about 15 feet tall and taking the full round of the entire museum. So we went there to take the tickets of it. And suddenly I saw the person from bus is following us and came there. For precaution we silently capture his photos from the train as if we are just taking photos of the museum.
After getting down from the train we complained to the person to the ticket counter that one person is following us from the bus. He said that there are security officials in the museum you can go to them. But I guess he saw us talking to the officials so he hide himself.
By the time it was 3.30 PM and nothing new to see in the museum so we decided to leave from there. Also we have to reach to hotel and do the checkout. While leaving museum we met few group of teacher who came from Pune only to Guwahati for cultural visit.
We caught the bus and returned to the hotel. We only had heavy breakfast in the morning and when we returned to the hotel it was 5PM. Jai was really hungry we ordered food for her and waiting for Debu Das as we have to meet him and our ticket was also with him. He came at 6. 15 PM. We cleared his dues. He was asking us 5000 of cancellation charges for a trip which he offered. We are again in shock. We have not confirmed the trip so why should we pay 5000? He was started nonsense arguing. As a help we were ready to use the car from Siligudy station to Gangtok. Later he said that car you will use so pay me the cancellation charges of hotels. Sandip was really angry and lost his temper. Sandip told I will not pay you single penny for this trip now. And really ask him to get out.
It was already 7.25 We really ran to catch the cab. The hotel was in the crowed area. Fortunately we didn't stuck in the traffic. When we reach to the station the train was already on the platform. To catch the train we have to cross 4-5 platforms. We ran and climb the bridge with lugguage and Jai.
After reaching to the train we searched our bogie and our seats. Just we settle down on the seat and train started.
With the mix feelings, and memories we said goodbye to Guwahati.
However still there are few questions remained in my mind..
1) Who has really taken our 30k?? Theif not sure..
2) Why we didn't get a public prosecutor, why we need to hire our private lawyer?
We have learn the lesson from our mistake and now we are extra careful when we are on the trip.
Please be with me in my next blog. We will visit Gangtok and Darjeeling.....
Day 1:
At 5.30 am the check in counter opened. We checked-in our luggage. Since the luggage was checked-in, I was now a free bird. I took a small tour of air port. I was observing people around me. One person was very tensed as he missed his flight, one girl was in tears while seeing of her parents. Kids were enthusiastic about there planned trip. As a girl I was observing few ladies who adorn themselves at so early morning.I said to my self, "oh, come on! its just a 5.30 AM to get ready with this makeup they might not even sleep in the night."
Sandip's gaze was fixed on one of the girl who was also dolled herself up, when I caught him he changed his sight.
Sandip (With wink): Oh,I thought it was you only as everywhere I see you only.
I (with sham anger): You should improve your acting skills. :)
Jai was also now awake and then she was hungry. I gave her snacks which I have bought from Lonavala.
By the time now security check-in signals were on. We did security check-ins. As watched pot never boils boarding sign was also not coming. After the longggggggg wait finally got the boarding signs on the board. When we were in the bus which was taking us near to the flight, few passengers were discussing their travel plan, that from Guwahati they are going to Gangtok.
"Gangtok" Suddenly bell alarms to my mind.It would be my another trip destination. I told Sandip that we will plan our next trip to Gangtok. As there was no option he said only "OK Boss."
As usual Jai took window seat, Sandip middle and I took the last seat. I tried hard to read but I was so tired I slept immediately.
At 10.30 Our plane landed to the Guwahati and we were just 100 kms away from Himalayan Country. Our cab driver was came there to pick-up us on the airport. We were about to sit in the car suddenly he told that there was one more person his friend also coming with us. We were little doubtful so contacted cab owner, who told us that the person is reliable and he is accompanying as while returning the driver will be alone and the area we were passing by is not safe specially in the evenings. We were fine with the new company. Both the cab driver and his friend were genuine people. Cab driver name was Gopal and his friend was Saurav.
We were chatting with them. They were giving information about the local people, their culture and the food. Sandip asked Gopal to stop at ICICI bank ATM as we want to withdraw some cash. All of us were looking for ATM till the time we pass through IIT campus of Guwahati. Now we were already out of the city and reached to the main highway. Our driver told that now we have already crossed the city and may be in the next town we will get the ATM.
Finally in the next town we got the ICICI ATM. We, specially Jai was hungry. There were some small tea stalls so I said lets have small tea break there only. But Saurav said its not very hygienic so we moved ahead. But later Jai was very hungry so we have to take halt at one dhaba. The Dhaba name was Lucky Dhaba. Gapal and Saurav, both were reluctant to stop there but we only insisted. While getting down we took one bag with us as it contains laptop, passports and cash. Though the Dhaba name was Lucky Dhaba for us it was bad lucky dhaba. Because from here things dramatically changed.
We actually want to eat snacks but there was no options available so we did brunch. The food was not good somehow I managed to finished my plate. The order food came too late so we have not waited for bill and directly go the counter to pay the bill. We paid the bill and sat into the car. Just after 2-3 kms we realized that we have forgot our bag at the dhaba only. Sandip immediately told driver to go back to dhaba. He was very tensed. Myself and driver was trying to cool down Sandip. When we reached to dhaba and inquired about our bag dhaba owner said he don't know anything about the bag. His hands were shaking. Sandip was skeptical about him. He told us that after us two people came and had food and left. They might have taken our bag.
But we were not convinced as we were back only in 10-15 mins, and when we left dhaba there was no one except us. I told Sandip if we assume what he is saying is true, but in reality how its possible that people came, order food and finish it in just 15 mins? Now I was also sure that this bugger is lying. I was in tears as our cash, passport and very important visa also in that bag.
We were pleading the owner, also we offered him money. But he was not ready to return the bag. By his gesture one can easily could have make out that he is the only THIEF.
We tried calling police but 100 number was not reachable. So Sandip and our driver went to the police station which was almost 10 kms from the place. I, Jai and Saurav stayed back. Sandip was reluctant to leave us but I assured him that I will take care of myself and Jai.
When Sandip left I called my brother Ajit and explain the incident happen with us. He was also shocked. He asked me to calm down and stay alert. But I ensured him and my family that we are safe as they were worrying about us. One of his colleague was from Guwahati, he said me if he will check with him and arrange some help. His words really act as pillar for me. I took a grip of myself. And looked around and you know, what Jai was doing?My little sweetheart Jai searched the bag, at all the places even in the toilets. Even this situation too, I was impressed by her presence of mind.
I was observing the hotel owner. I asked Sourav to translate what he was speaking in Asami. Sourav ask me to communicate in English as hotel owner don't understand it. Jai was now running out of her patience, and with her innocence she was asking me why hotel owner is holding our bag and not allowing us to go to Bhutan. I was so helpless and not having answer of her questions.
Almost 30 mins or more Sandip arrived with police. I was also requesting policemen to help us. But police were inquiring very calmly to that hotel owner.
They searched dhaba but didn't found anything. I thought in my mind that police should give a tight slap to the thief then only he will agree, however nothing happen as per my expectation. I was very worried. Sandip also was very tensed. But we were insisting that he is the only thief and we have doubt on him. So police took the dhaba owner and his assistant to the police station. While going to the police station he didn't have any fear on his face, rather he was very cool. If he would have not committed the crime he would have resisted to the police but he immediately agree to go to police station. I told police that from his behavior common person like us also can make out that he is the only culprit. As a police you might have faced many criminals so you could easily judge that he is the criminal then why are you so calm and generic to him? Police silently listen and took him to police station. In our car we also followed them. And we went to Changsari police station.
We directly went to the in-charge of the police station named Govinda Pathak (name changed). He was talking in generously with us. He knew little bit of English and Hindi well. He told that his brother was a genuine person and helped police in many cases etc. He was giving all such crap information which we are not interested in. We were still keeping our cool. Finally I got call from my brother and his Guwahati friend called the police commissioner and send commissioner's personal phone number for further help. I showed that message to the police and suddenly one inspector from other police station came and first ask us what happened. We again narrated story to him. He ask us why you people have not taken care of your bag. We accepted our mistake. Later he gave tight slap to the hotel owner's assistant. The assistant was a little younger. Inspector continued to scold him and hitting him. Looking at that scene Jai got very scared and started crying. I took her with me and came out of the cabin. Suddenly I hear a cheer from all police that they found a bag. Hotel owner is the only thief and hide that bag to his neighbour's place. I took a sigh of relief. Police didn't allow us to recover the bag saying there might be security threat. After some time police returned with the bag. All the valuables were there except the 30K cash was missing. Again we were in trouble. My brother and other relative called us and said that whatever you get please take and stop that matter there only. But police were forcing us to file the FIR. We were caught between rock and hard place. We told police that if we file a FIR then we have to take the bag from court and as next day is 2nd Oct it will be holiday for the court. But Govinda Pathak assures us that they can request the judge and as you are tourist, the case can be consider as emergency. He also said that he have a lawyer friend who will only charge Rs.500 and give our bag back. And there we took wrong decision. We filed a FIR. That was our second big mistake. He said that crime happened under Changsari police station which comes under Rangia jurisdiction. Rangia is the small town which is 50 km from Guwahati.
Changsari was not a very civilized place so we decided to stay in Guwahati only. And to go to Rangia we dont have other commuting vehicle so we decided to keep the same cab.
We returned to Guwahati. Gopal and Saurav helped us to find a good hotel. We never knew that trip will take this turn. Later we went to small tea stall and there we were further chatting with Gopal and Saurav. They were suggesting to go to media but we were not sure what to do?. The big question arose infront of us was "WHAT NEXT??".
Our family members were worried about our safety. They were continuously calling us. I completely broke down when I talked to my mom.
After having tea we went to room we silently ate the parathas which I have packed up with us. While eating a thought came to my mind, if we would have ate these parathas we could have avoid this incident.Suddenly Sandip's phone rang, the call was from one of the relative of that thief. He was asking to settle down the case, they were ready to pay us 30k. Initially we were confused what to do, but Sandip told him to come to police station next morning with cash and then only he will talk to him. Little ray of hope we now had.
We spend whole night in tossing and turning. In the mean while the tour agent Sangey was also following up with us. He was also worried about us. He told that if we can get the bag on 2nd Oct we can still have the same trip as planned.
Day 2:
The next day morning we got ready. My father advised us to go to some temple. And in Guwahati there is a very famous temple of Kamakhya Devi. This temple is situated on the hill. From the top of the hill you can have splendid view of the city. First we went to top of the hill click photos. There on the hill top there was one more temple. We went there. Later we come down and went to Kamakhya temple. But since there was a big queue we only did a mukh darshan.
After taking darshan we went back to the Changsari police station. Gopal and Saurav were with us. At police station thief's relatives were there. One of the lady came to me and request me to take the case back. She was in tears. That time I was also in tears. I replied her back that how he spoiled our trip and why he did such thing with us? She remained silent.
Later one of his relative came and ask us to settle down the case. But police somehow was not ready. They didn't made this happen. So we went to Court. Every time Sandip was pushing the demons (all policemen and the other government servants). After getting the bag we have to go to Bhutan after all. But nobody cared about, initially the thief's medical test was done. There doctor were not available, All these dumb fellows were kept waiting for doctor. Sandip went to the doctor house and narrated our story and request him to come early so that we can get out of this.
Doctor helped us. Later same thing happen in court as it was a court's holiday people came as per their convenience. Our lawyer as well as the thief lawyer also came. The opposite party lawyer was quite smart but cunning like fox. He took all information from us. In all this suffering the most non-tolerable thing was police were very friendly to that thief. They were chatting, having tea together.
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| Theif posing to camera |
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| Police with the Thief |
Later Clark of the court came, our lawyer said that we have to file a petition about the custody of our bag.
In between Sandip asked our lawyer that whats the procedure. He told that now today we will file a petition for the custody of the bag then the case against the thief will appear in the court then that time and whenever the court calls you for the witness you have to come. We were again in trauma, because from Pune its highly not possible to go Guwahati. Sandip told him do whatever but do something that we need not to come in the court again and again.
Now the magistrate of the court came. Some discussion happened between her, our laywer and the opposite party lawyer. We are not allowed to go in side her cabin. Later she called accused, but we are still out. After some time our lawyer came out. He said that our petition was approved by the magistrate but today you can't get the bag as she is the magistrate of the other court and she can't give the order to return the bag. This was new shock for us. We requested him that please allow us to meet magistrate. She accepted to meet us. We requested her, we narrated the story. We thought she will help us but our meeting with her was very disappointing. She was very rude to us. And I got very frustrated the treatment we are getting. I was crying like anything.
I was totally devastated, I din't have much expectation from police. But magistate is highly qualified person. They have some extra powers. They can use these powers in genuine cases. I was surprised why she has not used that power? I guess this was not enough though when we were talking to our lawyer, he told that for petition of custody and that to close the matter he will charged 30000 rupees. I thought whole world is revolving around me. Police, thief were both illiterate. But highly educated people are also cheating us. Those are part of system. When we meet this lawyer an hour back he behaved such good with us. And later he is charging us 30k. I told Sandip that tell him that we will think. Don't commit anything.
We left the place and return back to Guwahati. Now we discussed this matter to our hotel manager. He told that he has some good relation with good high court judge. Even that judge is not charging this much fees, reasonable amount is max 5 to 8K. We called that judge and seek help from him. Initially he said that he is busy but later he said that he will send his junior with us.
That day was also wasted. We called up the Bhutan tour operator Sangey that we have to cancel the trip and we are ready to pay all the cancellation charges.
Both Gopal and Saurav were with us for full day. They were helping us with talking to people, translating. That the theif is big shame to Assami people. They said that generally Aasami person is very generous to guests and you people are our guest but now you are in such situation.
Day 3:
Now again next day came. It was Saturday 3rd October. Now that day I didn't kept any expectation. I told Sandip too that we should prepare ourselves that today also we might not get bag. but Sandip was sure that today we will definitely get a bag. I told him hope for the best but prepare for the worst.
We took the junior lawyer of the high court lawyer. When we were in journey to the court he said that the Changsari police station in-charge is not a good person. He was the most corrupt and greedy person. Also the story that police officer told about the hotel owner's brother was totally false. He was the local goon of that area. And illegal liqour seller. He was giving regular "hafta" to the police. Now we are getting some idea. We were assuming that 30k from bag is stolen by the thief. But we cant deny other possibility too. Though as we don't have proof we kept our mouth shut.
Full day we were in the court. For court hearing and prosecution in that particular court we were not allowed to go.All communication and legal formalities happen from lawyer and the magistrate. This was new to us. At 4'o clock our current lawyer and lawyer of previous day came out with some letter in the hand. We thought we got the order. But our previous lawyer came to us and said," Dekha, Guwahati se lawyer laye na aap dekha natija" (You took lawyer from Guwahati, see the result..). We didn't understood what happened. Our lawyer showed us the order of a court it was for police and now court wants a detailed report from police that this bag belongs to Sandip Pawar. but then we questioned him that but yesterday that bugger was saying that your petition is approved and you will get bag tomorrow. Then our lawyer took us to the registrar and in that register there was no entry that yesterday Mr. Sandip Pawar came to to court and filed a petition. We were again completely shaken. This was biggest shock for us. More than loosing money I was annoyed because of being betrayed again and again. We were victim of our corrupt system.
The registrar was helpful. Knowing our case and matter in the letter he allowed to give the letter by hand to police station. Fortunately that corrupt person(Pathak) was not there. So that time office in-charge was another person. His name was Abdul Sayyad(Name change). He assured that he will give a detail report on Monday. And he knew our case so he was ready to help as far as he can. We offered him money but he denied and said he will accept after you get the bag.
Next day was Sunday so that night I told Sandip we are not sure how many days we have to stay here. So please move to cheaper hotel. That day we searched around near area. Later we found another hotel so we shifted to that hotel just for thinking security reason. At least we thought that Jai will enjoy. And we also have some change. Another advantage to move there was we got internet connection, and we could talk to family members easily and without roaming charges.
Day 4:
Next day it was Sunday and we really had nothing that just to wait into hotel. However Jai was crying and saying we are just sitting ideal and not doing anyting. Have we came here for this. She was absulately logical and right however we were still not in the mood. But looking at her we changed our mind and agree to go out. We thought visit to a zoo in Guwahati would be better place for Jai to enjoy. That day we decided not to call a cab. As a cab owner was charging us 2000 per day. At least we could save some amount. We went by bus. In between my father gave me number of another high court lawyer, who was my uncle's good friend's friend. My father told he is the one at least you can trust. We called him. His name was Shabbir Ahmad. After visiting zoo we called him, He came to pick us. He asked the details. He asked us not to worry. Within few mins he was very friendly to us. After meeting him we were also feeling relaxed. He took us to his home. He introduced us to his wife Meer Alam Ara and his cute daughter Shagufta. After long time Jai got someone to play so she was very happy.
Shabbir bhai explained us the procedure. Actually we have to file just two petitions one for the custody of the bag and another one is that saying as we received our bag we don't want further involvement in the case however court can continue the investigation. He has done most of education from Maharashtra. That time he lived in Pune and A.Nagar. He shared lot of his memories with us.
He invited us for dinner next day and also came to drop us to hotel. After meeting him we were so relaxed and sense of security.
Day 5
Next day Sandip received call from the police in-charge Mr. Abdul. He said that the report is ready and he will send it to the court directly. We went to court again. As we had some time I was taking study of Jai. As after our trip immediately her exams were there. By 2'o clock we got the order from Court that Police can return the bag to us. We paid the charges to the advocate. But for second petition we said don't file that petition immediately. If we file that petition that accused would have been free. So we said when we get a notice from the court then only file that second petition. As we have paid him for both the petition he was agree to do that. After getting the order we went to police station. The in-charge helped us. He returned the bag and completed all formality. I don't want to pay the bribe so I rushed up in the car. And didn't gave anything to the police in-charge though Sandip wanted to give him. I said I would have happily gave if we didn't have to bear tons of mental torture. Though he is good and helped us. But he has done his duty and Govt. is paying him. Why we pay extra. So without giving any penny token we returned.
After this we met to the cab owner, Debu Das who is boss of Gopal. We had flight bookings on the last day of the original planned trip. So we still had 5 more days.He said as you got the bag for remaining day you can go for small trip to Darjeeling and Gangtok. He said he will do the bookings as he has all transport business. He was charging us 32k which include hotel stay and transport by private vehicle. We thought it a bit expensive. So we told him we will have a thought on this. If we have to go for this trip we have to go to Siligudi and for Siligudi train bookings should be done immidiately. As I don't want to stay in Guwahati I said do the train bookings for Siligudy and for the rest of the trip we will decide later. He said Ok.
Later I told Sandip that in Siligudy my brother's friend is there. If we don't go to Darjeeling or Gangtok we can spend time in Siligudy. So that's the reason I asked him to do train bookings.
Then we went to market and took gift for Gopal and Saurav's kids and Shagufta. At same night we said Adieu to Saurav and Gopal.
In night we went to Shabbir bhai's home for dinner. Alam Ara prepared a delicious meal for us. She cooked non-veg for Sandip and vegetarian food for me.
Our frequencies matched up immediately and very soon we became friends. After dinner we say good bye and returned to hotel.
Day 6:
Next day we woke up bit late. It was our last day in Guwahati. My brother gave me the another travel agent contact. When we called him he offered a very good package of Darjeeling and Gangtok including food, hotel stay and transport by private vehicle. The package cost only 24k including all taxes. So we confirm it immediately. Then we call Debu Das and said that we will not going to any trip. But he insisted that he wants to meet in person. Also we have some dues of his cab service so we said that we will finalized all in the evening.
We had train at 7.45 pm so we thought to visit few places in Guwahati. We went to Umananda temple which is in the island of Brahmputra river. Within one hour we covered that. We atleast 4-5 more hours. So we went to Kalakhetra, which is cultural musium in Guwahati. By bus it took 1.5 hrs to went there. In Guwahati bus service is good. Private and public buses run there. So transport is really good. In buses also for ladies and gents seating arrangement is different. My husband and Jai were sitting in the gents row. At one bus stop one person came and sat next to me. I felt little awkward.My husband said to him that there are lots of free seats available in gents row why you are sitting there. He arrogantly said why you are bothered? My husband coolly replied the lady sitting beside you is my wife and my child wants to sit next to her.
He then shifted his seat but he continuously staring to me. Soon in next 10 mins our stop came and we get down.
We took the entry ticket. The museum was really big. There was different section for music, photography etc. We visited many section then we went to kids section. There toy train was there. My daughter wants to sit in in that. The toy train was about 15 feet tall and taking the full round of the entire museum. So we went there to take the tickets of it. And suddenly I saw the person from bus is following us and came there. For precaution we silently capture his photos from the train as if we are just taking photos of the museum.
After getting down from the train we complained to the person to the ticket counter that one person is following us from the bus. He said that there are security officials in the museum you can go to them. But I guess he saw us talking to the officials so he hide himself.
By the time it was 3.30 PM and nothing new to see in the museum so we decided to leave from there. Also we have to reach to hotel and do the checkout. While leaving museum we met few group of teacher who came from Pune only to Guwahati for cultural visit.
We caught the bus and returned to the hotel. We only had heavy breakfast in the morning and when we returned to the hotel it was 5PM. Jai was really hungry we ordered food for her and waiting for Debu Das as we have to meet him and our ticket was also with him. He came at 6. 15 PM. We cleared his dues. He was asking us 5000 of cancellation charges for a trip which he offered. We are again in shock. We have not confirmed the trip so why should we pay 5000? He was started nonsense arguing. As a help we were ready to use the car from Siligudy station to Gangtok. Later he said that car you will use so pay me the cancellation charges of hotels. Sandip was really angry and lost his temper. Sandip told I will not pay you single penny for this trip now. And really ask him to get out.
It was already 7.25 We really ran to catch the cab. The hotel was in the crowed area. Fortunately we didn't stuck in the traffic. When we reach to the station the train was already on the platform. To catch the train we have to cross 4-5 platforms. We ran and climb the bridge with lugguage and Jai.
After reaching to the train we searched our bogie and our seats. Just we settle down on the seat and train started.
With the mix feelings, and memories we said goodbye to Guwahati.
However still there are few questions remained in my mind..
1) Who has really taken our 30k?? Theif not sure..
2) Why we didn't get a public prosecutor, why we need to hire our private lawyer?
We have learn the lesson from our mistake and now we are extra careful when we are on the trip.
Please be with me in my next blog. We will visit Gangtok and Darjeeling.....
