Daijiworld Media Network - Gwalior
Gwalior, Oct 18: Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav has ordered the removal of a City Superintendent of Police (CSP) from his post and the suspension of eight other police personnel following alleged negligence in a truck accident near Sheetla Mata Temple in Gwalior that claimed 14 lives on Sunday, October 18.
The accident occurred around 1.30 am when a truck loaded with paddy reportedly lost control while descending a steep slope and crashed into devotees gathered near the temple. The vehicle allegedly broke through barricades and a police checkpoint before running over pilgrims and hitting the temple's outer wall and gate.
In a post on X, Yadav said instructions had been issued to remove the CSP from his post and suspend three station house officers, one traffic inspector, one head constable and three constables.
The Chief Minister also ordered a detailed investigation to establish responsibility and said strict action would be taken against those found guilty. He stressed that public safety was a priority and that negligence would not be tolerated.
“To prevent the recurrence of such incidents in the future, the security arrangements will be reviewed and necessary steps taken. No negligence will be tolerated at any level in public safety,” Yadav said.
Gwalior Collector Ruchika Chauhan confirmed that the death toll had risen to 14. The deceased include two women, two children below the age of 18 and 10 men. Three to four injured people remain in critical condition, while several others have been discharged after receiving initial treatment.
According to Gwalior Senior Superintendent of Police Dharmveer Singh, 39 people were taken to hospital following the accident. Two police personnel who were on duty at the site were also injured and are undergoing treatment.
According to preliminary details, the truck was travelling from the Chhinor direction when the driver reportedly lost control while negotiating the steep slope near the temple. The vehicle allegedly crossed barricades and a police checkpoint installed on the road during Navratri before crashing into the crowd.
The circumstances under which the truck crossed the barricades and checkpoint are being investigated. The district administration has initiated a probe into the accident, including alleged lapses in security arrangements and the response to the incident.
The tragedy has triggered anger among the victims' families, who have alleged police negligence and delays in rescue efforts.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over the loss of lives and announced financial assistance for the victims' families. An ex-gratia payment of Rs 2 lakh from the Prime Minister's National Relief Fund will be provided to the next of kin of each deceased person, while those injured will receive Rs 50,000 each.
The investigation is continuing, with authorities examining the alleged security lapses and the circumstances that allowed the truck to reach the crowded area near the temple.