Page 104 - 9th-language-english-2

Check your comprehension

Share your responses

1. How was the bond of friendship between Jumman and
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Algu?
2. On what condition did Jumman’s aunt transfer her
property to him?
3. What did the aunt demand to set up a separate kitchen?
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4. What made the old lady angry?
5. How did people react to the old lady when she went about
explaining her plight?
6. Why did Algu Choudhary say that he could not go against
Jumman?

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Part II

5. The Panchayat was held under the old banyan tree. Jumman
stood up and said, “The voice of the Panch is the voice of God.
Let my aunt nominate the head Panch. I will abide by her de-
cision.” “I nominate Algu Chowdhary as the Panch. The Panch
knows neither enemy nor friend.” stated the old lady. “Fine,”
replied Jumman hiding his joy over this unexpected piece of luck.
“Chachi, you are aware of my friendship with Jumman,” said
Algu. “Yes. But I also know that you will not kill your conscience
for the sake of friendship. God lives in the heart of the Panch,
and his voice is the voice of God.” And the old lady explained
her case.

6. “What have you to say in your defence?” asked Algu to
Jumman. Jumman narrated how his aunt transferred her
property and how he promised her to look after her as long as
she lived. “But of late there have been quarrels between my wife
and aunt. Now my aunt is claiming a monthly allowance from
me, which I can’t pay. That’s all I have to say,” he concluded
his submission. After consulting others, Algu announced, “We
are of the opinion that Jumman must pay his aunt a monthly
allowance, or else the property goes back to her.”
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