A sad event happened in a torch procession in Khandwa, Madhya Pradesh, late Thursday evening, which led to over 30 people getting injured, 12 of them in critical condition. The fire also occurred while the activity was being recorded on video; the people could be seen running in all directions. The sudden fire spread nearly created a rather stampede-like incidence, and some of the people got injured, including women and children.
All the injured were evacuated to the district hospital; police and other administrative officers quickly arrived at the scene to manage the chaos. Khandwa SP Manoj Rai informed that the torch procession was being taken out as part of the tribute event held at Ghantaghar. Shortly before the end of the event, some of the torches were flipped on their heads inadvertently. This caused the sawdust and oil in them to fall down and cause the torches nearby to catch fire and cause a fire outbreak. Most of the people who were near the procession and formed a closed chain at some distance were affected. It created many serious consequences like burns to the faces and hands.
Of the 30 people injured, 12 have been taken to the district hospital for further treatment, while the others have been treated and discharged. The tragedy happened during a torch march carried out by the Rashtrabhakt Veer Yuva Manch to promote a prior triple murder case and terrorism. The tragedy occurred at the end of the event, so the participants and the organizers could not have prepared for what had happened.
Police have opened an investigation to ascertain whether or not necessary safety precautions were complied with throughout the event. The local administration has promised to ensure all health support to the injured people and has urged the public to stay calm. It has brought issues about safety measures while conducting events that involve fire-related activities.
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