Child shows presence of mind and brings help as her friend slips into pond and starts to drown

When A. Chandana and C. Reetha, both aged around three, went near the pond at their village, Annur, in the district on November 10, little did they know what was in store for them.

They were returning after buying chocolates from a shop. Reetha stepped on some cow dung on the road and decided to wash her slippers in the pond water.

When she stepped into the pond, she slipped and started to drown in the water. She was saved thanks to the exemplary presence of mind displayed by Chandana.

At first, Chandana herself attempted to pull her friend out of the pond. According to personnel from the Department of Women and Child Welfare, when she could not, Chandana ran to Reetha’s house and alerted her father, Chandrashekar. But Mr. Chandrashekar neglected her words, believing it to be childish ramble. Chandana then ran to her own house and drew the attention of her father, Ajitkumar.

Mr. Ajithkumar rushed to the pond and rescued Reetha. She was given first aid at Annur and rushed to a hospital near Kala Muddana Doddi, police sources said.

The incident took place on Sunday evening. According to the police, Reetha was in the hospital for two days and has now completely recovered.

While Reetha’s parents Chandrashekar and Vinutha thanked Chandana and her father, the Department of Women and Child Welfare is contemplating recommending Chandana for the State or National Bravery Award.