Tazia touched a high-voltage wire; locals blame the electricity department for negligence
NAWADA – A Muharram procession in Diri village of the Nawada district in Bihar turned tragic on Sunday when a Tazia came in contact with a high-voltage electric wire, leaving eight people with serious burn injuries.
The incident occurred in the Nemdarganj police station area when mourners were raising a Tazia – a traditional symbol used during Muharram – and it accidentally touched an 11,000-volt power line.
“As soon as the Tazia hit the wire, there was a loud noise, and people started falling to the ground,” said eyewitness Ramesh Yadav. “Chaos and panic prevailed. Some were screaming, others were frozen in shock.”
The victims – Kajal Kumar (26), Arjun Chaudhary (25), Rajiv Kumar (25), Karko Kumar (26), Nitish Kumar (26), Subodh Kumar (24), Masudan Manjhi (27), and Sanjay Manjhi (26) – were rushed to Nawada Sadar Hospital.
“All patients are out of danger. We are giving them the best care possible,” said Dr RK Sinha from the hospital.
Locals have strongly criticised the electricity department.
“This accident happened because the power line was not cut in time,” said Abdul Salam, a resident of the village. “We had informed the department in advance about the procession, but they did not take action. Now people are suffering because of their carelessness.”
Vinay Kumar, the local police station in-charge, said, “We took immediate steps. The power was cut off quickly, and the injured were sent to the hospital without delay. The situation is under control now.”
Despite the accident, the spirit of unity was seen during Muharram, as people from different communities – including Hindus, Muslims, and Sikhs – gathered to mourn the martyrdom of Imam Hussain.
The incident has brought sorrow to the village. Many are calling for a full investigation and action against those responsible.
“There should be accountability,” said another local, Sita Devi.
The administration is monitoring the situation, and further steps may be taken based on the findings of the inquiry.
