14 Children Electrocuted in Rajasthan’s Kota during the Mahashivratri Festivities

14 children were electrocuted and sustained burn injuries during a Mahashivratri procession in Kota, Rajasthan on Friday. All the children were immediately rushed to a nearby hospital for medical attention and two of them are in critical condition, with electric burns covering 100% and 50% of their bodies. The remaining 12 children sustained burns below 50%.

“The priority is to give them proper treatment. One is in serious condition with 100% burns. An investigation has been initiated and if there has been any negligence from anyone, it will come out in the report. Except for the one who is 25 years of age, the rest children are below 14 years," said Kota SP Amrita Duhan.

The Kota SP added that the incident unfolded during a gathering of people from Kaali Basti, who were participating in a procession with their Kalash. A child carrying a pipe measuring 20-22 feet came into contact with a high-tension wire, triggering the electrocution. In an effort to rescue the child in distress, all the children present at the scene were exposed to the electric shock.

“It's a very sad incident. Two children are seriously injured with one having 100% burns. A special team has been formed to provide all possible treatment. Officials are directed to investigate if there has been any kind of negligence,” said Rajasthan Health Minister Heeralal Nagar who went to the hospital to take stock of the situation.​