This 82-Year-Old Has All the Friends She Needs — In the Mumbai Police Force

These police officers in Mumbai are proving that community relations are not just something we discuss in the abstract.

In Wadala village, Lalita Subramanian has been living alone in her apartment for 20 years. But alone and lonely are not the same thing, and Lalita has many people she can call her own — most remarkably, the cops from Matunga Police Station.

Her children, based in the US and Bangalore, visit her once a year, but they trust that she’s safe and cared for with her friends in the police force.

On January 3rd this year — Lalita’s 82nd birthday — 15 cops including a senior inspector reached her house carrying a cake, flowers and gifts.

They then sang ‘happy birthday’ for her and spent time with her in her home.

Image for representation only. Source: Wikipedia

The cops visit her thrice a day and run her errands. The beloved 82-year-old is called “mummy” by everyone at the station. They even know of the medication she needs to take and remind her to take them on time. Lalita suffers from asthma, and when she is unable to speak, she calls the cops through her mobile phone and someone reaches her immediately.

Lalita says that the cops haven’t allowed her to feel lonely. From her words, it is clear to her that these members of the police force are as dear to her as her own children.

“Every day for the last so many years, someone from Matunga Police Station comes home to check on my health. They’ll bring my medicines on their own, or run errands for me. They are like my own children,” an emotional Lalita said to the Mumbai Mirror, “When I miss my kids, I call up the police station. Within minutes, some of the station staffers will be home, having coffee with me. I’m never alone, thanks to the Matunga police.”

Featured image source: Mumbai Mirror

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

Found Value in This Story?Pay What You Can to Support Impactful Journalism

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?