Namakkal: An 18-year-old devotee lost his life, and another youth sustained critical injuries in a tragic accident during the annual chariot festival of the Arulmigu Arthanareeswarar Temple in Tiruchengode on Sunday. The deceased was identified as Harshavardhan, son of Govindaraja, a resident of Tiruchengode town.
According to health minister Dr. K. G. Arunraj, Harshavardhan was caught between the massive chariot wheel and a nearby wall while the procession was making a turn. He was rushed to the Government Mohan Kumaramangalam Medical College Hospital in Salem with severe injuries, but doctors declared him dead shortly after admission.
Another youth, G. Shashtikan, a 19-year-old college student, was also trapped in the accident. He survived but suffered severe injuries and is currently undergoing intensive treatment at the same hospital. Authorities have ordered special medical care for him.
Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay expressed deep sorrow over the incident and conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and relatives. He also announced an ex-gratia payment of Rs 5 lakh from the chief minister’s general relief fund to the family of the deceased.
The Tiruchengode town police have registered a case and initiated an inquiry into the incident.
