By Firstdespatch Desk Jun 30, 2023
Agartala, Jun 30 (FD) Tripura chapter of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) has initiated an "internal investigation" to the tragic accident during the Ulto Rath Yatra in Kumarghat in Unakoti district two days after the mishap.
President of the organization Ram Govinda Das informed reporters that a thorough investigation has started and the guilty persons would not be spared.
He claimed that necessary permissions were obtained for the Ulto Rath Yatra in Agartala, including consent from the fire and power departments.
However, he admitted to being unaware of the procedures followed in Kumarghat.
Seven people were electrocuted to death and at least 15 others were seriously injured in the mishap at Kumarghat on Wednesday last.
Das, stated that he had personally visited the injured devotees at hospitals in Kumarghat, Kailashahar, and Fatikroy, where they were receiving treatment for burn injuries sustained in the chariot mishap. While Das affirmed that the The tragic electrocution occurred when a high-tension line came into contact with ISKCON's metal chariot, resulting in the deaths of six people on the spot. Videos of the incident have circulated widely on social media, showcasing the bodies of devotees burning in broad daylight on the streets.
Das assured the media that a thorough internal investigation was underway and vowed that those found responsible would face appropriate punishment. He expressed remorse over the incident and acknowledged that it should not have occurred. Furthermore, Das pledged to cooperate with the government and finalise the details of the internal investigation.
ISKCON monk Ram Govind Das responded to criticism regarding the use of an iron chariot instead of a traditional wooden one, stating that the wooden ratha used in Puri's Jagannath Bari temple might not be feasible everywhere due to legal and practical considerations. He mentioned the formation of a special committee during the Indian Continental Committee meeting at Puri to decide on the future process of building the rath, ensuring safety measures are in place.
In response to the tragedy, Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha promptly visited Kumarghat and ordered a magisterial inquiry. He announced compensation of Rs. 4 lakh for the families of each deceased person, Rs. 2.5 lakh for those with burn injuries exceeding 60%, and Rs. 75,000 for individuals with 40–60% burn injuries. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also pledged Rs. 2 lakh for the families of the deceased and Rs. 50,000 for the injured from the Prime Minister's Relief Fund. FD JK