Daijiworld Media Network - Raipur
Raipur, Aug 23: At least six people, including four policemen, were injured after a speeding SUV collided with Chhattisgarh Forest Minister Kedar Kashyap's convoy near Junwani on the Jagdalpur-Kondagaon border on Sunday, officials said.
The minister escaped unhurt and did not suffer any serious injuries. His woman personal assistant was also injured in the accident, while the four police personnel travelling in the convoy's follow vehicle were critically injured and later referred to Raipur for advanced treatment.
According to police, the minister's convoy was travelling from Farsaguda towards Kondagaon when a Scorpio coming from the opposite direction suddenly rammed into the minister's car.
The SUV then lost control and collided with the vehicle following the minister's car. The impact caused significant damage to the follow vehicle and triggered panic at the scene.
Four policemen critically injured
Four police personnel deployed in the follow vehicle sustained injuries in the collision. Police and administrative teams rushed to the spot after receiving information about the accident.
The injured were initially taken to Kondagaon District Hospital for treatment. Preliminary reports said all the injured were receiving medical care, with four of the police personnel later referred to Raipur because of the severity of their injuries.
The minister's personal assistant and driver were also reported to have sustained injuries.
Kashyap, in a post on X, said the accident occurred near Bhanpuri on the Jagdalpur-Kondagaon route and that the injured personnel were immediately taken to hospital.
He said he had enquired about their health and directed doctors to ensure appropriate and better treatment.
Despite the force of the collision, no fatalities were reported. Both the minister's vehicle and the follow vehicle were damaged in the accident.
Probe underway
Police have launched an investigation into the circumstances leading to the collision. Officials are examining whether excessive speed played a role and are questioning the driver of the Scorpio.
Investigating teams are also collecting evidence from the accident site to establish how the collision occurred on the busy stretch near Junwani.
Authorities are continuing to monitor the condition of the injured police personnel, while further details about the investigation and their health are awaited.