Maharashtra cop back from New York to hero's welcome

It was an early Diwali for the residents of Bhate Bunder fishermen’s colony on Thursday evening.

They celebrated the arrival of assistant sub-inspector of the state railway police Hema Bhanga, the daughter of a fisherman from Uttan, who had bagged three gold medals in the World Police Sports Tournament which concluded in New York last week.

Bhanga’s homecoming was marked by fireworks and a musical band, following which she sought blessings from the local church and the community’s Ganesh pandal. She has dedicated her medals to the martyrs of the 26/11 terrorist attacks.

“While I was participating in the sports events in New York, I missed my people and the Maharashtra police. I dedicate my medals to all the police officials who laid down their lives for our country. All of them were in the back of my mind while I was representing my country. I am too small to dedicate these medals to them but nobody should forget their fight against terrorism,” said Bhanga. Over 10,000 residents gathered at Uttan chowk to greet Bhanga. “I am blessed that I received full support from the police department to represent my country,” she said.