New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed deep grief over the tragic death of seven Odia tourists in a road accident in Madhya Pradesh and announced ex-gratia assistance for the victims’ families.
In a post on X, the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) said, “The mishap in Agar Malwa, Madhya Pradesh, is extremely painful. I extend my condolences to those who have lost their loved ones.”
“An ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF would be given to the next of kin of each deceased. The injured would be given Rs. 50,000: PM,” the PMO added.
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has also expressed deep grief over the incident and offered heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families.The CM has instructed government officials to work with the Madhya Pradesh government and local authorities to ensure all formalities are completed quickly. He has specifically directed that the bodies of the deceased be brought back to Odisha with full dignity and respect.
“Deeply saddened by the tragic loss of Odia tourists in an accident in Madhya Pradesh. My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. May the departed souls rest in peace. I have directed officials to coordinate with the Madhya Pradesh Government and local administration to expedite all necessary procedures and ensure that the mortal remains are brought back to Odisha with due dignity. The State Government stands firmly with the bereaved families in this hour of grief,” CM Majhi said.
Eight devotees, including three children and two women, were killed after the car they were travelling in was swept away by a rain-swollen stream near the Maa Baglamukhi Temple in Nalkheda in Agar-Malwa district on Saturday, police said.
Seven of the victims were residents of Jaydev Vihar area in Bhubaneswar. They have been identified as family members of Banamali Behera, including his son Siba Prasad Behera, daughters Radharani and Ritarani, son-in-law Gyanendra, two grandsons and a granddaughter.
The car driver, identified as Krushna Rajveer, who belongs to the locality and had travelled with them from Ujjain to Nalkheda, was also killed.
According to police, the accident occurred when the car attempted to cross the swollen stream near the temple amid strong water current. Preliminary findings suggest the driver tried to cross the stream in haste, following which the vehicle was swept away.
