Kalpetta: Shaija Baby, an Asha worker from Wayanad, has received the Kerala Sree award for her commitment and service during the landslide disaster where nine members from her family also lost their lives. The award reflects her commitment to helping families in their time of need, even amidst profound grief.
When Shaija learned about the award, memories of the mortuary at Meppadi rushed back. For 11 consecutive days and nights, she worked tirelessly to receive and identify the dismembered bodies of the landslide victims. As a former ward member of Mundakkai and former vice president of Meppadi Panchayat, she was deeply connected to the local community. She has been an Asha worker for 16 years. It was excruciatingly painful for her to receive the lifeless bodies of her loved ones, but she held on.
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“It was the last thing I could do for my loved ones—to recognise them and hand them over to their relatives,” Shaija shared, reflecting on the emotional pain she endured while carrying out this important duty. Shaija was not alone in her efforts; she was joined by Seenath, another former ward member, who also assisted in the mortuary.
Resilience in the face of loss
“My family, my loved ones,” is how Shaija describes her connection to the people. This bond fueled her determination to stay and help during such a difficult time. The relatives waited anxiously for the bodies of their loved ones, making phone calls in search of information. There was relief on their faces when they finally identified a body, and deep disappointment when a body could not be found. Shaija recounted the 11 days that passed.
Having previously lived in Mundakkai, Shaija relocated to a rented home in Meppadi after the landslides in 2020 affected her original residence. The house that was under construction in Chooralmala also collapsed during the landslides.
An award with a purpose
While she was honoured to receive the Kerala Sree award, Shaija stated that it is not a source of happiness amid the persisting sorrow. She said that if the award inspires women to step forward in times of crisis, then that would bring her joy.
Health Minister Veena George personally called Shaija to congratulate her on the award, acknowledging her contributions to the people of Wayanad. Shaija continues her work as an Asha worker in Kottanad, carrying the memories of those lost while supporting people in need. She cherishes the time spent in Mundakkai.
Published: 03 Nov 2024, 12:10 pm IST
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