Chandigarh: While slogans demanding education reforms and accountability echoed across Sector 17 Plaza on Thursday, others chose to lend their support in a quieter way — through seva.Harkamal Singh, an ice cream vendor, spent the afternoon distributing free ice creams to protesters standing in the sweltering heat. This was his way of contributing to a cause he believes in.“This is what I know best, and this is my way of contributing. Demanding accountability is a basic right in a democracy. Our community teaches us seva, and I have inherited that spirit. If I come forward today, someone else who sees me may also be inspired to contribute in their own way,” he said.Nearby, retired residents Balwinder Singh and Baldev moved through the crowd carrying containers of homemade aam panna, offering glasses to anyone who needed relief from the sweltering July heat.“We have come here to support the youth. They are fighting for a cause they believe in, and they represent the future of this country. This is our way of standing with them,” they said.The spirit of service towards protesters translated into a delectable treat.Ankush Singh Dadwal, who runs a food outlet in Mohali, came with two others, carrying nearly 120 momo plates for protesters. This is not the first time he has served the popular dish to protesters.“I didn’t like seeing students being lathi-charged. They are only asking for justice. This is my livelihood, so this is what I can contribute. We’ll keep serving food until it runs out,” he said.As speeches continued and the march gathered pace, volunteers with food, drinks and ice creams quietly distributed it to the crowd, reminding protesters that solidarity was being expressed not only through slogans, but also through service.
