Investigation Launched After Fatal Electrical Shock on Religious Procession

A fatal electrical shock struck the Jagannath Rath Yatra procession in Jharkhand’s Torpa area on Monday, leaving two school pupils dead and six more critically injured. The rath, carrying the deity’s idol, brushed against an 11,000‑volt overhead line, delivering a lethal charge.

The two victims, identified as 12th‑grade students Chandan Kumar and Tijeshwar Gop, died instantly. The six other students, all members of Shri Hari Plus‑Two High School, suffered extensive burns and have been admitted to the nearest medical facility for emergency care.

Authorities have sealed the site and begun a forensic review to determine procedural lapses. Early findings suggest inadequate clearance between the procession route and the power infrastructure. The district administration has ordered a comprehensive safety audit of all future public events.

Jalal Udari, the former chief minister, expressed his shock on social media, invoking prayers for the families and demanding accountability from those responsible for the oversight.