Relatives say a one-time payment cannot secure the future of 3 children
Wajahat Shabir
SRINAGAR: The family of Mohammad Shafi Parray, the tailor killed in the accidental blast at Nowgam Police Station on November 14, has said that the government’s ex-gratia compensation is “not enough”, urging the administration to provide a permanent government job to support his wife and children.
Parray, a resident of Wanabal in Nowgam, was among nine people killed when a large quantity of seized explosive material accidentally detonated during sampling inside the police station. He was the only civilian present and had been assisting with stitching and packaging work when the explosion occurred.
Relatives say the government’s ₹10 lakh compensation cannot secure the future of his three children — two sons and a daughter — who were entirely dependent on him.
“Ten lakh rupees won’t raise three children. What we need is stability. A government job is the only way this family can survive now,” said a close relative standing beside the grieving family.
Another family member questioned the decision to involve a civilian in such high-risk work. “He stepped out that morning to earn a day’s wage, not to risk his life. Why was a civilian made to enter a room full of explosives?” asked his elder brother.
The family says Parray’s role in life was simple — tailoring and supporting his home. “Shafi was the backbone of this house. With him gone, everything has collapsed. The government must give his children a future, not just compensation,” said another relative.
Additional close relatives shared the same anguish. “Shafi never said no to anyone. He went because they asked him for help. But who will help his children now?” said his younger brother.
Another maternal uncle said the loss had broken the entire family. “He struggled his whole life so his children wouldn’t suffer the way he did. Today, they are left with nothing. The government must stand with them.”
One female relative broke down recalling the youngest child. “His daughter keeps asking when her father will come home. How do we explain that he is gone forever?”
A cousin expressed frustration over the circumstances that led to the tragedy. “If they had valued his life even a little, they wouldn’t have sent him into such danger. The least they can do now is secure the future of his children.”
Neighbours, who gathered in large numbers at the family’s home, echoed the demand for long-term support. “He was everyone’s helping hand in the neighbourhood. Now the government should become his family’s helping hand,” said a neighbour.
Another local resident emphasised the need for permanent relief. “This tragedy didn’t just take a life — it destroyed a home. A job for his children is the least the government can offer.”
