Dr. Ramdas Athawale
Mumbai:
After a seven-year struggle for justice, hope has finally emerged for Mr. Vinay Sahebrao Kadam, a resident of Vikhroli (East), Mumbai, whose plea for compassionate appointment had been left unheard by the National Insurance Company Limited (NICL). The long-standing issue recently caught the attention of Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment, Dr. Ramdas Athawale, following persistent efforts by Mr. Tushar Tanaji Kamble, State Secretary of the Republican Party of India (Athawale) – Shramik Brigade.
A Seven-Year Struggle for Justice
Mr. Vinay Kadam’s elder brother, Late Mr. Sudhir Sahebrao Kadam, served as Deputy Manager at National Insurance Company Limited (a Government of India undertaking). Tragically, he lost his life in a road accident on May 2, 2018. Soon after, the family applied for a compassionate appointment for Vinay, with a formal letter sent by their father on July 5, 2018.
Despite submitting all required documents on November 11, 2019, the family received no communication for years. In a shocking turn, the company rejected the application on July 15, 2024, citing a new Government Resolution (GR) that allegedly disqualified applicants above the age of 35. However, when asked for the date and details of this GR, the company failed to provide clarity.
Escalation to the National Commission for Scheduled Castes
Determined not to give up, Mr. Kadam filed a formal complaint with the National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) on March 3, 2025. Acting promptly, the Commission sought a response from NICL on March 27, 2025.
Upon reviewing the company’s reply, Mr. Kadam discovered two conflicting versions of the GR, both with different dates and titles — raising serious doubts about the authenticity of the document. He filed a rejoinder on June 9, 2025, highlighting these discrepancies.
Subsequently, on August 15, 2025, the NCSC directed NICL to submit a detailed explanation within 30 days. However, before the deadline expired, the case was abruptly closed on September 1, 2025, leaving the applicant in dismay.
Tushar Tanaji Kamble Steps In
When the matter reached Mr. Tushar Tanaji Kamble, a rising social and political figure known for his people-centric activism, he immediately intervened. Recognizing the injustice, he brought the case directly to Union Minister Dr. Ramdas Athawale, who assured swift action.
Dr. Athawale personally contacted Mr. Udaykumar Mahanthi, Chief Business Manager of National Insurance Company (Mumbai Office), directing that “Mr. Vinay Kadam must receive justice.”
Upon learning that the case fell under the jurisdiction of the Head Office in Kolkata, Mr. Kamble personally traveled to Kolkata, carrying an official letter from Dr. Athawale. There, he met General Manager Mr. Amit Satish and Executive Director Ms. Sridevi Nair, presented the Minister’s directive, and elaborated on the discrepancies in the company’s response.
Assurance of Fair Action
Both senior officials assured Mr. Kamble that the issue would be investigated thoroughly and that fair action would be taken. Upon his return to Mumbai, Mr. Kamble met Mr. Udaykumar Mahanthi once again, submitted a full report of his discussions in Kolkata, and urged for immediate resolution in favor of Mr. Kadam.
“The Fight Will Continue Until Justice is Served”
Speaking to the media, Mr. Tushar Tanaji Kamble reaffirmed his commitment to the cause, stating:
“I will not rest until Vinay Kadam gets justice. This fight will continue until the truth prevails.”
The proactive intervention by Union Minister Dr. Ramdas Athawale and the relentless pursuit of Tushar Tanaji Kamble have rekindled hope for Mr. Kadam and his family, who have waited years for fair treatment from the system.
This case stands as a powerful reminder of the importance of accountability, compassion, and social justice — and how collective action can bring long-delayed justice closer to reality.
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