The realization flashed through Virkar’s mind as he watched Colasco writhing on the wooden dais. If it hadn’t been for the wood, Colasco would have died instantaneously, given that the shock had been potent enough to cause a flame to emanate from his body. However, the electrically-charged steel mike stand burning Colasco’s palms was the biggest deterrent to providing him with any sort of aid. If Virkar touched either the mike or Colasco, he, too, would get a severe shock. There was no question of pulling them apart with his hands. His eyes darted over the dais looking for something he could use to pry them apart, even as utter chaos broke out among the audience. Around him, the frightened slum elders started withdrawing from the scene, afraid that the flames would leap out at them and spread everywhere. Women were grabbing their screaming children and beating a hasty exit. Virkar’s police contingent, too, was rooted to its spot, not knowing how to react in this moment of crisis.
