She hugged the women and acknowledged their warmth with smiles. Escorted by her guards, she sat on a big cot that the villagers had cleared for her and folded her hands. The noise and the milling around continued till she settled down. It was clear that even though they had defied the army’s request, they were moved by her concern for them and a bit surprised that a serving general’s wife had personally taken the trouble to drive down for the sake of their safety. Bibi, in turn, found herself reciprocating the love she had received from the villagers. She had some local snacks that were served and shook hands with young girls who were seated in the front rows.

After a good fifteen minutes of pleasantries, she began to address them. There was grace in her voice and care in her expressions. She talked about how their being in their homes would be an added worry for the army, about how the army could not spread itself thin. She then urged them to move into the army school. ‘I admire your decision to stay put in your village,’ she said. ‘But till the time the situation remains uncertain and dangerous, please stay in the school compound which will be manned by army guards. We will ensure a supply of water, food and other basic amenities.’ After completing her appeal, she waited for their response.

The panchayat chief was the first to speak. To the surprise of the escorting subedar and guards, he agreed to her request without any ‘ifs and buts’ and thanked her for showering the village with care and concern. He also said that if this helped the cause of the army, then so be it. The meeting ended before it could even begin properly. But the villagers were in no mood to let her go back yet. A sumptuous lunch was laid out quickly and she was served like a guest of honour. Looking at the vast variety of dishes, it soon became clear to Bibi that each family had prepared something for the occasion. Shaking her head in disbelief, yet not wanting to hurt their feelings, she ate what she could and carried along packed mess tins that were filled with food and brimming with love.

Two days later, the school began receiving its guests. Young children and their mothers occupied the classrooms that were emptied and made into makeshift bedrooms, while the elders put mats and cots inside the compound. Bibi helped them set up. She converted a large room into a rations store. She also helped them set up a makeshift kitchen. She herself took charge as an administrator. Her physical presence ensured full backup from the rank and file at the army cantonment.