Laishram Ningthemjao got only one promotion in his entire career, and that came 13 years after his death. The Manipur electricity department's belated show of benevolence did not end there. Laishram was allowed to continue 'in service' for another three years before he 'retired' gracefully in 2001, just as all honorable people in government service do when they reach the age of superannuation. The catch in this incredible story is that someone other than Laishram's family was enjoying the fruits of his extended, post-death career for 16 years.
The chronological aberrations in Laishram's service record came to light recently when his son, L. Bobo, sought all documents pertaining to his father's stint as an assistant lineman and the financial benefits he and his family were entitled to.