Cops play Santa to 11-year-old haemophilia patient on Independence Day

Mumbai: Eleven-year-old Jeet Bhanushali today realised his dream of donning a police uniform and unfurling the National Flag on the occasion of 69th Independence Day, courtesy Vashi police in adjoining Navi Mumbai.

Jeet, a sixth standard student, suffers from life threatening haemophilia A (factor 8 deficiency) and his wish was conveyed to police through an NGO 'Makes A Wish Foundation'.

Haemophilia is an inherited condition that affects the blood's ability to clot. "This morning, Jeet came to the police station, wearing a police officer's uniform. He unfurled the tricolour and interacted with real police officers in his momentary role as station in-charge," senior police inspector at Vashi police station Ajaykumar Landge told PTI.

The boy, a resident of Koparkhairane in Navi Mumbai, was shown around the police station in presence of Navi Mumbai Assistant Commissioner Arun Walture, Landge said. Jeet's mother Alpa Jayesh Bhanushali, was overjoyed that her ailing son's wish was granted by the cops.

"I can't thank the policemen enough for the gesture they have shown. I saw joy in his eyes after a long time," she said.