Chapters 20 and 21 Summary

Chapter 20

The new District Collector, who is in charge of a town like a mayor, arrives in Shahkot. His new secretary, Mr. Gupta, formerly of the post office, greets him with stacks of plans and proposals. Mr. Gupta tells him that the monkey controversy is terrible business.

Chapter 21

The DC visits Sampath although neither man speaks. The meeting is interrupted by crowds of protestors, making it a futile exercise. The first proposal meeting is held with the Brigadier at the new DC's residence, which is surrounded by protestors including members of the Monkey Protection Society. The DC does not consider the Brigadier's plan as prudent. The CMO's is the second plan reviewed. The plan has been met with protests from the cafe owners who do not want to give up their liquor licenses. In addition, other towns are protesting, fearing that...