A 19-year-old Malayali youth has won widespread admiration for his extraordinary courage after rescuing a four-year-old girl who was on the verge of falling from the balcony of a third-floor apartment in Vasai West. The daring rescue has earned him accolades from educational institutions, community members and political leaders alike.
The incident occurred at Anand Villa, near Dosti in Vasai West, where little Niha, daughter of Krishnajith and Sumisha, natives of Thrissur, was left alone in the apartment while her grandmother briefly stepped out. Niha’s parents are currently employed in the Gulf, and she lives with her grandmother and uncle in Vasai.
At around 5.30 p.m., Babit Vaiju (19), a college student from Nedumudi Chennankari in Alappuzha, was chatting with friends outside the building when one of them noticed the child hanging dangerously through the gap in the balcony grill. Realising the gravity of the situation, Babit immediately rushed to the third floor in an attempt to reach the child, only to find the apartment locked from the outside.
Without losing precious time, Babit ran downstairs, collected a bedsheet from a nearby house and, with the assistance of his friend Mithil, stretched it beneath the balcony. They calmly encouraged the frightened child to jump. Moments later, Niha fell onto the makeshift safety net, and the two young men safely caught her, preventing what could have been a fatal tragedy.
Although the child sustained a fracture to her left shoulder due to the impact, doctors confirmed that the timely rescue saved her life.
Recalling the incident, Babit said, “In emergencies like this, there is no time to hesitate. Many accidents become tragedies because people delay taking action. Whenever someone’s life is in danger, we should be ready to help without thinking twice.”
The heroic rescue has brought Babit widespread appreciation from across the country. The authorities of St. Gonsalo Garcia College, where he is a student, honoured him at a special function in recognition of his courage and presence of mind.
In another gesture of appreciation, the BJP Vasai Unit also felicitated Babit for his exemplary act of bravery. The ceremony was attended by prominent BJP leaders, including Uttamkumar K. B., along with other office-bearers of the Vasai unit. The leaders praised Babit’s timely intervention and presented him with a memento as a mark of respect and gratitude for saving the child’s life.
Babit is the son of Vaiju and Bindu. His father is an active member of the Vasai Ayyappa Seva Samiti committee and is also associated with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
Babit’s courageous action has become an inspiring example of humanity, selflessness and quick thinking. His presence of mind and willingness to act without hesitation ensured that a young life was saved, earning him the admiration and respect of people across Mumbai and beyond.