Table of Contents
Summary
Part 1
The story revolves around the friendship between Jumman Shaikh and Algu Chowdhry. They had a strong bond and would take care of each other’s families. However, Jumman’s aunt transferred her property to him with the condition that she would stay with him. Initially, things went well, but eventually, Jumman and his family grew tired of the old relative and treated her poorly. When the aunt asked for a monthly allowance to set up a separate kitchen, Jumman refused and showed no remorse. The aunt decided to take her case to the village panchayat, seeking support from the villagers. Despite being Jumman’s best friend, Algu hesitated to speak up for justice. The story highlights the conflict between loyalty and standing up for what is right.
Part 2
The panchayat took place, with Jumman reluctantly agreeing to let his aunt nominate the head Panch. Algu, torn between friendship and justice, acknowledged the importance of following one’s conscience. Jumman defended his position, but after careful examination, the panchayat ruled that he must provide a monthly allowance to his aunt or return the property to her. As a result, the friendship between Jumman and Algu was shattered, leading Jumman to become Algu’s enemy, driven by a desire for revenge.
Part 3
Algu Chowdhry faced a difficult situation when one of his bullocks died and the other was sold, with payment expected in a month. However, the remaining bullock also died within that timeframe. Algu sought the help of the panchayat, and preparations were made for the case. Jumman, now the head Panch, was chosen by Sahu, the debtor, to potentially favor his side. Despite personal grievances, Jumman recognized his duty as a judge and prioritized justice. He ruled in favor of Algu, stating that Sahu should pay for the bullock as it was not Algu’s fault that it died. Algu, overwhelmed with gratitude, praised the panchayat and the triumph of justice. Jumman, realizing the importance of impartiality, reconciled with Algu, and their friendship was restored, free from misunderstandings.
Questions and Answers
Q1. Match the sentences under 1st with those under 2nd part
| Part 1 |
|---|
| 1. Jumman and Algu were the best of friends. |
| 2. Jumman’s aunt transferred her property to him. |
| 3. The aunt decided to appeal to the panchayat. |
| 4. Algu was unwilling to support the aunt. |
| 5. Jumman was very happy to hear Algu’s name as head Panch. |
| Part 2 |
|---|
| 1. He believed that his friend would never go against him. |
| 2. She wanted justice. |
| 3. In the absence of one, the other took care of his family. |
| 4. The condition was that he would be responsible for her welfare. |
| 5. The bond of friendship between him and Jumman was very strong. |
Answer
| Part 1 | Part 2 |
|---|---|
| 1. Jumman and Algu were the best of friends. | 5. The bond of friendship between him and Jumman was very strong. |
| 2. Jumman’s aunt transferred her property to him. | 4. The condition was that he would be responsible for her welfare. |
| 3. The aunt decided to appeal to the panchayat. | 3. In the absence of one, the other took care of his family. |
| 4. Algu was unwilling to support the aunt. | 2. She wanted justice. |
| 5. Jumman was very happy to hear Algu’s name as head Panch. | 1. He believed that his friend would never go against him. |
Q2. Who says this to whom and why?
1. “My wife knows best how to run the house.”
Answer: Jumman says this to his aunt. He says it to dismiss her request for a separate monthly allowance, implying that his wife has control over household matters and decisions.
2. “But is it right, my son, to keep mum and not say what you consider just and fair?”
Answer: Jumman’s aunt says this to Algu. She questions Algu about his silence and urges him to speak up for what he believes is right and fair, even if it means going against their friendship.
3. “What have you to say in your defence?”
Answer: Algu says this to Jumman during the panchayat proceedings. Algu, who is now a Panch, asks Jumman to present his arguments and justifications regarding the treatment of his aunt and the refusal to provide her with a monthly allowance.
4. “I can’t pay you a penny for the wretched beast you sold me.”
Answer: Sahu says this to Algu when reminded of the money he owes him for the bullock. Sahu refuses to pay, expressing his frustration with the dead animal and offering Algu the use of another bullock instead of payment.
5. “Victory to the panchayat. This is justice.
Answer: Algu says this after the panchayat rules in his favor, stating that Sahu should pay him for the bullock. Algu expresses his satisfaction with the decision, considering it a triumph of justice and praising the panchayat for delivering a fair outcome.
