Two Killed, Five Injured in Electrocution Incident at Barabanki Temple During Shravan Rituals

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A tragic incident occurred in the early hours of Monday at the Ausaneshwar Mahadev temple in Haidergarh, Barabanki, where two devotees lost their lives and five others sustained injuries due to electrocution. The mishap took place during the Jalabhishek ritual, as hundreds of worshippers had gathered to offer prayers in the holy month of Shravan.

According to local officials, a high-tension electric wire snapped and fell onto a tin shed under which devotees were standing. The wire is believed to have broken after being disturbed by monkeys jumping on it. The metal shed conducted the electricity, causing the immediate electrocution of several people nearby.

The victims were identified as 28-year-old Ramesh Kumar and 17-year-old Prashant Kumar, both residents of Haidergarh. They were declared dead on the spot. Five other individuals suffered electric shocks and were taken to nearby hospitals for treatment. Most were later discharged, though some are still under observation.

The incident triggered a wave of panic among worshippers, leading to a chaotic situation. However, police clarified that the deaths occurred due to electrocution and not due to a stampede. Local authorities and temple management quickly worked to restore order at the site.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath expressed grief over the loss of lives and announced an ex gratia payment of ₹5 lakh each for the families of the deceased. The Chief Minister also directed officials to ensure proper medical assistance for the injured and ordered an inquiry into the incident.

District Magistrate Shashank Tripathi said that the initial investigation suggests the electrocution was caused by accidental contact between the broken wire and the shed. He added that no negligence has been found on the part of the temple administration so far, though further inquiries are underway.

Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak has called for a detailed report within 24 hours and emphasized the importance of preventive measures in places of worship that see large gatherings. The incident has prompted authorities to inspect other religious venues for electrical safety to avoid similar tragedies.

The temple has since reopened, and devotees have resumed their prayers under enhanced safety measures.