Foreign Jaunt

Shekhawat discusses overseas tour plans

A casual mention in the past turned into firm resolve as Shekhawat today sought the commitment from members on a “phoren tour” slated early next year. He reminded them that having covered the four extremities of the country – Kashmir, Kerala, Goa and Gangtok – there is now little else in India for us to explore from the Club.
“It is time we cast our net overseas,” he said. “Wherever it might be – Hong Kong, Singapore, Bangkok… whatever, I leave it for you all to decide. But we must not delay any longer.”
Significantly, Shekhawat was not restricting himself to Bangkok or Pattaya only, as he used to in the past. For that matter, he is open to even taking the Club to the U.S. and Europe.
“But first, I would request you all to get your passports in order. Anybody not having a valid passport must apply for one immediately,” he urged.
What Shekhawat has not factored in is the possibility of visa rejection in respect of one or more members of the group. (Since most of them would be carrying 'virgin' passports, this is a very real risk.)

Fehmida narrates Teja Singh's accident

Teja Singh Bhambra

And as visa applications must necessarily be accompanied by two-way flight tickets as well as confirmed hotel reservations, a rejection could entail forfeiting entire booking amounts running into several thousands of rupees.
Ultimately, getting visas for all the members is a gamble and Shekhawat needs to think again before sticking his neck into this. The only place no visa is required for Indian passport holders is Hong Kong (and Macau). But that is a frightfully expensive destination, not worth the money.
Meanwhile, Fehmida Khan came in with some disturbing news. Last evening she saw Teja Singh Bhambra outside a medical store, but in rather unfortunate circumstances. He had slipped and fallen to the ground, taking the load of three bicycles (parked alongside) upon him. She found him badly injured, crying for help.
Inquiries with Sardarji's wife today revealed that he is "somewhat better" now. The accident occurred due to giddiness, presumably triggered by a sudden drop in blood pressure or sugar level – she isn’t quite sure. We just hope and pray that he turns fit and fine soon.