Ratlam: Three people were killed and at least seven others injured after a Tazia came into contact with a high-tension power line during a Muharram procession in Madhya Pradesh’s Ratlam district, police said on Friday.
The incident occurred in Hatnara village under the Piploda police station area when the Tazia was being carried through the village as part of the Muharram procession on Thursday night.
Around 200 people were participating in the procession when the structure reportedly touched an overhead high-tension electricity line.
According to police, several people received electric shocks and burn injuries after the Tazia came in contact with the live wire, triggering panic among the participants.
Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) Rakesh Pandro said police and administrative officials rushed to the spot immediately after receiving information about the incident.
“During the Tazia procession, the structure came into contact with a high-tension power line, causing several people to suffer electric shocks and burn injuries. An investigation has been initiated, and all aspects, including whether there was any negligence regarding the height of the power line or safety measures, are being examined,” the ASP said.
The deceased have been identified as Rashid Khan, Saddu Hussain and Arbaz Khan. Police said the family of one of the deceased took away the body before the completion of hospital formalities.
The administration is verifying all details related to the casualties.
The injured have been admitted to Ratlam Medical College and other nearby hospitals. Five of them are reported to be in critical condition. A team of doctors is monitoring their condition.
Eyewitnesses alleged that the overhead power line was hanging at a low height. They also claimed that no personnel from the electricity department were present at the spot when the accident occurred.
A video of the incident has surfaced on social media, showing chaos after the electrocution as people rushed to rescue the injured and shift them to hospitals.
Police said the exact cause of the accident will be known after the investigation is completed.
Further action will be taken based on the findings.
(IANS)
