Ratlam, A tragic accident occurred on Thursday night during a Muharram procession in Hatnara village, located within the Piploda police station area of ​​the district. Three people died and around 15 others suffered burns—with many more sustaining injuries—after the Tazia came into contact with a high-tension power line, causing an electric shock to spread through the structure. The injured are currently undergoing treatment at Ratlam Medical College, the District Hospital, and private hospitals. 

Tazia Hits High-Tension Line; Chaos Ensues

According to eyewitnesses, the Tazia procession was taking place in Hatnara village around 10:30 PM on the occasion of Muharram. As the group carrying the Tazia passed through the Mewati neighborhood, the structure came into contact with a high-tension power line running at a height of approximately 15 feet.

As soon as it touched the high-tension wire, the electric current surged through the entire Tazia, affecting those nearby. Many people suffered burns and fell to the ground, while others were injured after falling over one another amidst the ensuing stampede and chaos. 

Three Dead; Treatment Underway for Many

Following the accident, locals immediately rushed the injured to the District Hospital and Medical College using private vehicles. During treatment, 32-year-old Rashid Khan (son of Wahid Khan) and 40-year-old Saddu (son of Mohammad Hussain)—both residents of Hatnara village—were declared dead. Later, 25-year-old Abrar also succumbed to his injuries.

According to officials, the condition of many injured individuals is now stable, and doctors have stated that some patients are out of danger. 

Police and Public Representatives Visit Hospital

Upon receiving news of the incident, Additional Superintendent of Police (City) Rakesh Pandro and CSP Satyendra Ghanghoria arrived at the Medical College to gather details about the incident from the victims and their families. Congress leader and District Panchayat member DP Dhakad also visited the hospital to assist with the treatment of the injured. A video of the incident has also surfaced, showing people attending to the injured and attempting to transport them to the hospital following the accident.

  Treatment of the injured is underway  

Those injured in the accident—including Akhtiyar Khan, Anas, Shakeel Mansoori, Raees Khan, Mohammad Khan, Wahid Khan, Arbaz Khan, Ibrahim, Irfan, Farukh, and Rahim—are currently undergoing treatment at the medical college, the district hospital, and private hospitals. Most of the injured are residents of Hatnara village, while others hail from nearby areas.

  Eyewitness recounts the incident  

Eyewitness Sultan Khan stated that he had come to Hatnara to visit his maternal uncle, Akhtiyar Khan, and watch the Tazia procession; he was walking alongside the procession. According to him, as the group moved forward with the Tazia, it came into contact with a high-tension power line, and within moments, the electric current surged through the entire structure.

Confirming the incident, ASP Rakesh Pandro stated that three people have died, while several others are undergoing treatment at various hospitals.

  Lineman suspended for negligence  

Following the accident, the electricity company took action by suspending lineman Ghanshyam Gir. According to an order issued by the Executive Engineer, he was required to be present at the Hatnara grievance redressal center during the Muharram procession; however, due to alleged negligence in his duties, he has been suspended with immediate effect and attached to the Jaora headquarters.

Additionally, orders have been issued to terminate the services of lineman Samrath Makwana and worker Gobilal on charges of negligence in their work.

The administration has initiated a detailed investigation into the incident to determine the causes and establish accountability.