Chennai, June 1:
A tragic accident during a temple festival in Tiruchengode claimed the life of an 18-year-old young boy, while another teenager sustained injuries after being caught under the wheels of a temple chariot on Sunday. The incident occurred during the annual festival at the revered Arthanareeswarar Temple, where a large number of devotees had gathered for the procession.
According to reports, the presiding deity was being taken out in a grand chariot procession when Harshvardhan (18) accidentally came under the massive wheels, suffering critical injuries. He was initially treated at the Tiruchengode Government Hospital and later shifted to Mohan Kumaramangalam Medical College Hospital in Salem for advanced care, where he succumbed to his injuries. Another youth, Sashtigan (19), who was injured in the incident, is currently undergoing treatment.
Chief Minister Vijay expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy and extended his condolences to the bereaved family. He also announced a solatium of ₹5 lakh from the Chief Minister’s Public Relief Fund. Health Minister Arunrraj visited the injured at the hospital and directed officials to ensure the best possible treatment, even as the incident raises fresh concerns over crowd safety during large religious gatherings.