85-Year-Old Jal Devi Becomes a Panch in UP. Says Her Fight Has Just Begun.

Jal Devi, an 85-year-old woman from Agra, was recently elected as a panchayat member in UP. Mother to a 73-year-old woman, Jal Devi is probably the oldest panch in the state.

By Shreya Pareek

November 5, 2015

Jal Devi, an 85-year-old woman from Agra, was recently elected as a panchayat member in Uttar Pradesh. Mother to a 73-year-old woman, Jal Devi is probably the oldest panch in the state. She wants to fight corruption in her ward.

The average age of retirement in India is 60. But here is one woman who has started a new job at the age of 85. Surprised? We were too!

Meet Jal Devi, who was recently elected as a panchayat member in Uttar Pradesh.

UP Jal Devi

Photo for representation. Inset Photo Source: www.prlog.org

She beat her 32-year-old rival – by a record 7,213 votes in ward 28 of Jagner-II block in Agra district – to become probably the oldest panch in UP.

This proactive leader got on to the job right after the results were announced. She had people’s complaints noted down in a register and assured them that someone would follow up soon.

Although Jal Devi is unable to walk without a stick, she is determined to tread the path of justice and fight corruption for the sake of people in her ward. She wants to take down those who indulge in corruption, especially in schools and ration shops.

Jal Devi was backed by Lakshman Sena, a non political organization that focuses on fighting corruption. It was started in 2005 by her own son, Ramnath, an ex-army man.

Jal Devi claims that the age of 85 mentioned in her new age certificate (she lost the original) is wrong, and that she is in fact 90 years old. Her eldest daughter is 73 years old.

Nearing the century mark and well into her twilight years, Jal Devi says her fight has just begun.

Like this story? Or have something to share? Write to us: [email protected], or connect with us on Facebook and Twitter (@thebetterindia).

Similar Story

Want to Play a Role in Shaping India’s Climate Laws & Policies? Here’s a One-Stop Guide

Civis, a platform that enables citizens to participate in public consultations in the domain of environment and policy has released Climate Voices. This is a handbook and guide for Indians to participate in environmental law-making and play an active role in shaping our climate policies.

If you found our stories insightful, informative, or even just enjoyable, we invite you to consider making a voluntary payment to support the work we do at The Better India. Your contribution helps us continue producing quality content that educates, inspires, and drives positive change.

Choose one of the payment options below for your contribution-

₹201 ₹501 ₹1001

By paying for the stories you value, you directly contribute to sustaining our efforts focused on making a difference in the world. Together, let's ensure that impactful stories continue to be told and shared, enriching lives and communities alike.

Thank you for your support. Here are some frequently asked questions you might find helpful to know why you are contributing?