One dead, dozens hurt as bolt hits spectators at Kumarbanj football game

A violent thunderstorm interrupted a Vishwakarma Puja football tournament in Kumarbanj, Jhargarh, on Friday evening. Participants and fans had gathered under a makeshift shelter when a lightning bolt struck, killing 19‑year‑old student Deepen Murmu and injuring twenty‑two others. Emergency services evacuated the injured to Lalgarh Primary Health Centre; four were later moved to Medinapur Medical College for intensive care, while the rest were taken to the district hospital. Local officials emphasized the need for rapid response and promised assistance to affected families.