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Tripura CM orders magisterial enquiry into electrocution deaths during Rath Yatra
Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced ₹2 lakh for each of the deceased’s families, and ₹50,000 for the injured from the PM Relief Fund
Tripura chief minister Manik Saha has ordered a magisterial enquiry after seven people, including three children and three women, were electrocuted to death during the ‘Ulto Rath’ (the return of Lord Jagannath’s chariot) procession in Unakoti district’s Kumarghat on Wednesday.
Apart from the seven deceased, another 16 were injured after the crest of a chariot came in contact with high tension power transmission lines during the procession in Kumarghat.
Saha also announced ₹4 lakh compensation for the kin of the deceased, ₹2.5 lakh for those who have sustained over 60% burn injuries and ₹75,000 for those who suffered 40-60% burn injuries.
In addition to that, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced ₹2 lakh for each of the deceased’s families, and ₹50,000 for the injured from the PM Relief Fund.
“The mishap during the Ulta Rath Yatra at Kumarghat is saddening. Condolences to those who have lost their loved ones in this mishap. May the injured recover soon. The local administration is providing all possible assistance to those affected,” the PMO said on Twitter.
Soon after the incident, Saha rushed to Kumarghat and met the injured people in the hospital.
“The state government will bear the expenses of treatment of all the injured devotees. If required, patients will be sent to other states for better treatment. We have already asked for an enquiry headed by the Unakoti district magistrate. We shall take proper action after receiving the report,” the CM told the reporters in Kumarghat last night.
State power minister Ratan Lal Nath also asked the DGM of Tripura State Electricity Corporation Ltd, Kumarghat to probe the incident and submit a report to the government at the earliest.
