Davanagere: In an extraordinary display of patriotism and selflessness, 86-year-old Karibasamma, a retired teacher battling terminal cancer, has donated her life savings of ₹10 lakh to the 'Bharat Ke Veer' soldiers' welfare fund. Living in an old age home in Davanagere's MCC B Block, Karibasamma is also widely known across the country for her long-standing legal crusade advocating for clear guidelines on passive euthanasia (mercy killing).
Her deep reverence for India's soldiers has been a lifelong sentiment. Witnessing the hardships of troops stationed on treacherous borders, far away from their families, she made a solemn vow to contribute to their welfare. To fulfill this dream, she pooled together her pension and the proceeds from selling her only house. She recently handed over the ₹10 lakh cheque to Davanagere District Collector Dr. Gangadharaswami G.M., expressing immense relief and joy at having fulfilled her ultimate life mission.
Karibasamma's generosity is even more profound given her personal circumstances. She has spent decades fighting a relentless legal battle for the implementation of comprehensive guidelines regarding euthanasia in India, a cause for which she has repeatedly petitioned Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, and various Chief Ministers. Amidst her ongoing activism, she developed severe health complications, including high blood pressure, diabetes, a slipped disc, and cancer.
Reflecting on her donation, Karibasamma shared that she had initially set aside ₹6 lakh from her house sale specifically for the Border Security Force (BSF) fund. Over time, with accrued interest and pension savings, that amount grew to ₹10 lakh. She stated that passing this sum to the nation's protectors has finally freed her from her worldly debts, especially as her health continues to deteriorate unpredictably.
Deeply moved by her gesture, District Collector Dr. Gangadharaswami G.M. visited the old age home to personally accept the cheque and ensure its safe transfer to the soldiers' fund. He praised Karibasamma as an absolute role model for the nation, noting that her profound patriotism, despite her severe physical ailments and personal struggles, serves as an inspiring lesson in humanity and civic duty for everyone.
