Neemuch- Kanchan Bai Meghwal, a Dalit Anganwadi cook from Ranpur village in Neemuch district, Madhya Pradesh, sacrificed her life on February 2, to protect nearly 20 children from a sudden, aggressive swarm of bees. The 40- to 45-year-old woman, who served as the sole breadwinner for her family, including her paralyzed husband Shivlal and their three children (one son and two daughters) was preparing meals at the Anganwadi centre under Madavada Panchayat when the tragedy unfolded.

Children were playing outside the centre when a massive beehive on a nearby tree triggered the attack, sending the swarm descending without warning. Panic ensued as the bees surrounded the young ones. Without a moment's hesitation, Kanchan Bai rushed forward, grabbing tarpaulin sheets (tirpal), mats (dari), and blankets to wrap and shield each child individually.

She deliberately positioned herself to draw the bees' fury away, ushering the children into a secure inner room while staying exposed. Witnesses described her as a living shield, ensuring every child was safe before collapsing from hundreds, if not thousands of stings. She was rushed to a nearby health centre but was declared dead on arrival or shortly after due to the overwhelming venom.

Suresh Meghwal, a resident of the village, said, "Kanchanbai was very punctual; she would come to the Anganwadi center on time every day. She never complained and always had a smile on her face. She was managing the family due to her husband's illness, and now her death has brought immense hardship upon the family."

Speaking with the media, one of the villagers, Kailash Meghwal said, "Kanchan Bai died while trying to save the children from the bees. We immediately informed the police. The 112 emergency service arrived at the scene and took her to Sarwaniya Maharaj Hospital, but she succumbed to her injuries."

Sarwaniya Maharaj police outpost in-charge Nilesh Solanki said, "Upon receiving the information, the 112 emergency service reached the spot and took the woman to the hospital. She died during treatment. A post-mortem was conducted at the Neemuch District Hospital, and the body was handed over to the family. The police have registered a case and started an investigation."

The incident has sparked widespread admiration and mourning across India. Major media outlets have covered her story extensively, portraying her as an embodiment of selfless service in India's grassroots childcare system. Social media platforms, especially X, Instagram, and Facebook, are overflowing with tributes hailing her as a "hero of humanity," "martyr," and "true national hero." Posts describe her as a "quiet guardian" who "gave her tomorrow so those 20 children could see theirs," with many emphasizing her Dalit background and calling for government recognition, financial support, lifelong education for her children, and state honors.

Viral reels and shares from Ambedkarite accounts and pages focused on bravery amplify her as a symbol of courage from marginalized communities, with phrases like "Not all heroes wear capes, some wear an apron and a heart of pure gold" resonating deeply. Netizens express grief over her family's vulnerability and demand crowdfunding or official assistance.

However, the Madhya Pradesh government or Neemuch district administration has not publicly announced ex-gratia compensation or other support measures. The village remains in mourning, with residents and online voices united in saluting Kanchan Bai's extraordinary bravery while pressing for justice and aid for her bereaved family.

In a post demanding financial assistance for Kanchan's aggrieved family, Bhim Army leader Sunil Astay urged the MP government to provide free education to her children for life; a government job to one member of the family; and grant Kanchan Bai Meghwal the status of a martyr.