Pathankot: At an age when most people would seek the safety and comfort of home, 82-year-old Sharam Singh and 72-year-old Kulwinder Singh have spent the past 10 days exposed to rain, strong winds and the open sky — perched on a 200-foot-high tower near the residence of the deputy commissioner, Pathankot. The two men climbed the tower on Aug 25 to protest against the management of Shahpur Kandi Dam.“We are demanding jobs for our kin. Land was acquired from us for the construction of the dam for a paltry sum of Rs 2,700 per kanal. At that time, we were promised that our children will be employed in the project,” the duo said.Despite torrential rain over the past two days and their deteriorating health, they have refused to come down, said Bairaj Oustee Sangarash Committee president Dayal Singh. Speaking on the phone, Kulwinder Singh said the frequent rain had begun affecting his health. “Every second day, there is rain and it has caused health problems. But we have no option,” he said.Food is being provided to the protesters twice a day, and drinking water is also being supplied. “Strong winds and heavy rain at a height of 200 feet can break anyone’s resolve. But these two elderly men remain determined,” Kulwinder Singh said. Despite repeated attempts, chief engineer Sher Singh couldn’t be contacted for his comments.
