Three killed by high-tension wire during Durga idol immersion procession in UP's Gorakhpur

Three people were electrocuted to death during a Durga idol immersion procession in Uttar Pradesh's Gorakhpur on Wednesday after an idol mounted on an iron structure came into contact with a high-tension electricity wire.

The incident triggered protests outside BRD Medical College, where the injured were taken for treatment. Police later intervened to disperse the crowd and restore order.

According to an eyewitness, the area had been without electricity until around 3 pm. After power was restored, the group began its journey for the immersion.

During the procession, the flagpole attached to the tractor-trolley carrying the idol reportedly came into contact with the high-tension wire, resulting in the electrocution.

One youth fell after being struck by the electric current, while two others were also electrocuted. Those who sustained burn injuries were rushed to BRD Medical College for treatment.

Police and administrative officials reached the spot after receiving information about the incident.

Two police constables suspended

Gorakhpur Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Dr Kaustubh said the idol, about six feet tall, came into contact with a high-tension wire between 4 pm and 4.30 pm.

The idol was mounted on an iron structure, which touched the overhead power line. Two police constables who were accompanying the procession have been suspended in connection with the incident, the SSP said.

One of the constables also suffered a minor electric shock and was taken for medical attention.

Protests outside BRD Medical College

The deaths prompted local residents and family members of the deceased to gather outside BRD Medical College, briefly blocking the road in protest.

The gathering became tense, with police personnel deployed to manage the crowd.

According to the SSP, the demands raised by the families of all three deceased individuals have been met.

He said the protesters were subsequently persuaded to clear the road, and the families were satisfied with the steps taken by the authorities.

The SSP added that the situation was peaceful and that the necessary procedures were being carried out. The incident cast a shadow over the Durga Puja festivities, turning an immersion procession into a fatal accident.