Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik has announced that he will bear the full treatment expenses of Nagesh Bhoir, a Bhiwandi resident who suffered a serious spinal injury after falling from a human pyramid during a Dahi Handi event, according to a report by Loksatta – Thane.
Bhoir was 24 when the accident occurred in 2009. The injury left him bedridden, and he has continued to require medical treatment, medicines and physiotherapy for the past 18 years, the report said. His condition requires periodic hospitalisation, with admission reportedly needed approximately once every two months depending on his health.
Bhoir had sought government assistance for the cost of treatment rather than a one-time financial donation. He had asked that the government cover the expenses at the hospital where he receives care. The continuing cost of medicines and treatment had become difficult for his family to manage after earlier support from friends and acquaintances declined.
Sarnaik made the announcement while interacting with Govinda teams at the Dahi Handi festival organised by Sanskruti Pratishthan in Vartak Nagar. He said he would take responsibility for Bhoir’s complete treatment expenses, providing relief to the family, according to the report.
The case has brought renewed attention to the long-term consequences of injuries sustained during Dahi Handi celebrations. In Thane and Mumbai, organisers conduct events that can include large cash prizes and human pyramids built by Govinda teams. The height and risk associated with these formations are regularly discussed during the festival season, particularly when safety precautions are inadequate.
Bhoir’s case also highlights the continuing medical and financial needs that can follow a serious event-related injury. His treatment is not limited to the initial hospitalisation. Regular medicines, physiotherapy and recurring admissions have created an ongoing expense over nearly two decades. The report said that a small number of friends continue to assist with his medical costs, but that this support has not been sufficient.
The minister’s announcement follows Bhoir’s request for the government to pay for treatment directly. The report did not provide details of a written government order, the mechanism through which the expenses will be paid, the hospital involved or the amount expected to be spent. Further details on the implementation of the commitment were not immediately available in the supplied report.
