What does Sunder Singh convey by saying that he has lent his tunnel to the Government?
By saying he has lent his tunnel to the Government, Sunder Singh conveys his deep sense of ownership and connection to the tunnel.
He treats the tunnel as his personal responsibility and domain, even though it officially belongs to the Government. This statement reveals his pride in his work and his feeling that he is the true caretaker of the tunnel, while the Government merely uses it.
Explanation
The chapter shows Sunder Singh's possessiveness about the tunnel: 'It is truly my tunnel, since no one else will have anything to do with it. I have only lent it to the Government.' This humorous yet meaningful statement reflects his dedication to his job and his emotional attachment to the place he guards. He sees himself as the tunnel's true guardian.
Solution Steps
Sunder Singh expresses a deep sense of ownership and connection to the tunnel through his statement
He treats the tunnel as his personal responsibility despite it officially belonging to the Government
His words reveal pride in his work and his self-image as the tunnel's true caretaker