Odisha: Bol Bam devotee killed, another critical after being hit by bus in Jagatsinghpur

Jagatsinghpur, July 28: In a tragic incident, a Kaudia (Bol Bam devotee) was killed and another sustained critical injury after a passenger bus reportedly hit them while they were returning after performing 'Jalabhishek' (a sacred water offering) at a Shiva temple in Odisha's Jagatsinghpur district this morning.

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Although the identity of the deceased is yet to be confirmed, initial investigations suggest he was a resident of Puri district.

As per reports, the mishap occurred near Palasahi village within Naugaon police limits when four Kaudias from Puri had visited the Gorakhnath Peeth—revered as an incarnation of Lord Shiva—located about 13 km from Jagatsinghpur town. 

After completing the 'Jalabhishek' ritual, they were on their way back when a passenger bus, named 'Sri Krishna' en-route to Jagatsinghpur from Naugaon, struck them and then fled from the scene.

One of the devotees died on the spot after being run over, while another sustained severe injuries. The injured devotee was promptly taken to the District Headquarters Hospital (DHH) and is currently undergoing treatment.

The incident triggered public outrage as irate locals gathered at the spot and staged a road blockade demanding justice for the deceased’s family and immediate arrest of the bus driver.

Upon getting the information, police arrived at the scene and pacified the agitators. The cops also seized the deceased’s body and sent it for post-mortem.

Efforts are underway to track the accused bus driver and further investigation into the matter is underway, said the police.