Shimla: Chaos and grief have gripped the families of Assistant Lineman Pankesh Kumar and Maintenance Worker Sushil Kumar—both electrocuted to death while repairing a high-voltage electricity line.

The big question—why were they sent to fix a live line without switching off the power from the substation?

Both employees of Himachal Pradesh State Electricity Board Limited (HPSEBL), the duo’s tragic end has sparked outrage. Why weren’t they equipped with proper testing tools or safety gear? Who approved the repair without ensuring standard safety protocols?

As questions mount, Education Minister Rohit Thakur has expressed deep sorrow over the incident. “Both workers lost their lives in the line of duty, and their dedication will always be remembered,” he said, extending condolences to their families.

Thakur assured full support to the bereaved families and prayed for the departed souls.

But condolences aside, who’ll answer for this lapse? Were safety protocols ignored in the rush to restore power?

Until accountability is fixed, such tragedies will continue to haunt those who risk their lives to keep the lights on.