Jharkhand Government Announces Compensation for Deoghar Road Accident Victims

Deoghar – The Jharkhand government has announced ex-gratia payments for those affected by the tragic road accident in Mohanpur, Deoghar. Families of the deceased will receive ?1 lakh each, while the injured will be given ?20,000 each.

Following Chief Minister Hemant Soren’s instructions, State Health Minister Dr. Irfan Ansari reached Deoghar and visited the injured at Sadar Hospital. He reviewed the medical treatment being provided and confirmed that all services, including medicines and diagnostic tests, are free of charge.

The accident occurred when a bus carrying Kanwariya pilgrims collided with a truck transporting gas cylinders. Six pilgrims lost their lives, and 23 others were injured. While initial reports cited 18 deaths, officials later confirmed the toll to be six.

Jharkhand Mukti Morcha spokesperson Manoj Kumar Pandey criticized MP Nishikant Dubey for politicizing the tragedy, stating that it was a heartbreaking accident, likely caused by human error.

The Kanwariyas were returning from Baba Baidyanath Dham and heading towards Basukinath when the incident took place.

Seven of the critically injured have been referred to AIIMS Deoghar, where special care is being provided. CM Soren has directed that the best medical treatment be ensured and that support be extended to the families.

Health Minister Ansari said that arrangements have been made to send the recovered pilgrims back home safely. He emphasized that the government is taking all precautions to safeguard pilgrims visiting Baba Dham.

Deoghar DC Naman Priyash Lakra stated that a committee is being set up to investigate the incident. If any negligence is found, strict action will be taken against responsible parties. Vehicle inspections will also be tightened to avoid future mishaps.

With inputs from IANS