A Burning

Jivan returns to the prison with her sentencing clouding her mind. Uma madam comes by her cell and orders her to pack her things. Uma madam and a prison guard bring Jivan to another cell, down in what looks like the basement. Jivan is to wait out her sentence in solitary confinement, but she still hopes that Gobind will help her file a mercy petition. In her new solitary cell, the days blend together, and Jivan only has cockroaches for company.

PT Sir takes his wife to shop for a tandoor oven. He is making nearly double his salary now that he is working more for the party, but he struggles to feel proud of this new wealth. PT Sir continues traveling to schools on behalf of the party, speaking to teachers about their problems, and motivating people to vote for the party. When the state elections approach, PT Sir contributes to party rhetoric by advocating for more consistent teacher pay, a novel idea for the older politicians. Shortly after, with many promotions coming his way, PT Sir resigns from his school. Though he is now free from that unfulfilling job, he’s surprised to feel a little nostalgic about it already.