Remembering Babita Deokaran: a symbol of integrity in a time of turmoil

I ATTENDED the funeral of Babita Deokaran with an all consuming pit in the stomach. How does one offer support and condolences in such circumstances? I drew strength from Babita's example of a South African bravely committed to doing the right thing. It also helped that I carried with me a message of condolence and support from the now late Pravin Gordhan.

- RAVI PILLAY

As many of us want to do in moments of crisis, I had called Gordhan on learning of Babita's death. He immediately understood the gravity of the situation and agreed to send a message of support. That message, in its entirety, is published alongside. It captures the essence of the national mood which prevails till today.

"Babita Deokaran is a national hero. She must be commended and celebrated. She must be the example of a dedicated public servant."

We hope that the family draws great strength from Gordhan's message.

2021 was a dreadful year. We were in the middle of Covid-19. We were still reeling from the July 2021 unrest when Babita was killed. Later we endured devastating floods. We can only imagine the despair of the family in such circumstances. But dedicated South Africans have persevered - against the odds, despite deliberate obstruction.

Tribute must be paid to the courage of the family and Babita's brother Rakesh in particular, to the media, civil society organisations such as the Active Citizens Movement, the Ahmed Kathrada Foundation and many others.

Babita was a senior civil servant who took her job seriously. She represents the essence of what is meant by the capable state - people who have skills, understand their jobs, and apply themselves with dedication and integrity. But she was also a caring family and community member. POST readers will be touched by the observation that on her fridge door "photos of joyful occasions, religious icons and Hindu deities had pride of place".