Exactly 13 years ago, on March 8, 2012, a shocking incident occurred in Madhya Pradesh's Chambal Range, stirring outrage not just in the state but throughout the nation. In the infamously illegal mining-prone area, a young, brave IPS officer of the 2009 batch, Narendra Kumar, was mercilessly crushed to death by a stone-laden tractor deliberately driven over him by the mafia. This stirring event sent shockwaves through the region, and the memories remain vivid to this day. The swift and sharp Narendra was the husband of IAS officer Madhurani Teotia, who now serves as the secretary to the newly-elected Chief Minister of Delhi.
Hailing from the village of Lalpur in Mathura’s Nauhjheel, Narendra Kumar was a young IPS officer from the 2009 batch. He was serving as the Sub-Divisional Officer of Police (SDO) in the Banmore region of Morena district at the time. Narendra had taken a firm stance against illegal mining operations and mafia activities, confiscating numerous tractors and trolleys and issuing stern warnings to the perpetrators, enraging the local mining mafia.
Tragedy on Holi: Narendra Kumar's Last Stand
On that fateful day, March 8, 2012, which was also the festival of Holi, SDO Narendra Kumar was at his official residence preparing for the celebration. Suddenly, he headed out to oversee the security arrangements during the festival. It was then that he noticed a tractor transporting illegally mined stones in the Banmore area. Attempting to halt the tractor, he was confronted with defiance as the driver accelerated. Quickly, Narendra instructed his staff to set up barricades, but the crafty driver, Manoj Gurjar, attempted to escape by making a U-turn.
In a courageous move, IPS Narendra leaped aboard the tractor, seizing the steering wheel with one hand and trying to stop the driver with the other. However, Manoj Gurjar pushed the young officer off, causing him to fall, and the tractor's stone-laden trolley rolled over him. The on-site policemen caught the driver and rushed the injured IPS to a hospital in Gwalior, where he was declared dead by the doctors.
Read More: Madhurani Teotia Warns of Danger to Narendra's Life
At the time of the tragedy, IPS Narendra's wife, IAS officer Madhurani Teotia, was posted as an Additional Collector in Gwalior and was on maternity leave. This heartbreaking event shattered Madhurani. On March 9, 2012, she lit her husband's funeral pyre in Lalpur village. Just 11 days after her husband’s death, she gave birth to a son. Following the incident, Madhurani decided to leave the Madhya Pradesh cadre for the AGMUT (Arunachal Pradesh, Goa, Mizoram, and Union Territories) cadre.
Source: aajtak
Madhurani's Administrative Journey
Madhurani Teotia has held several important positions throughout her career. She served as Additional CEO at the National Health Authority in Delhi, among other significant roles within the central government. Her recent appointment as Chief Minister Rekha Gupta's secretary in Delhi reflects her honest reputation and administrative competence. Madhurani's step forward not only showcases her dedication and hard work but also her resolute commitment to her duties, standing strong even after her husband's martyrdom.
Demand for Action Against the Mafia
Following the incident, swift police action led to the arrest of several accused. As the case gained traction, the state government found itself under pressure and ordered a judicial investigation, with the matter also being handed over to the CBI. The court sentenced the tractor driver to 10 years in prison. However, Narendra's father alleged that several influential individuals had yet to be brought to justice, accusing the local police of abandoning his honest son against the mafia without any support.
A Legacy of Bravery
The late IPS Narendra Kumar is celebrated for his unwavering bravery. His fearless actions in the line of duty against the mafia have become an inspiring example for many. His legacy of courage is not only honored by the police force but also stands as a shining example for every section of society.
