Chirag Paswan Warns of Strict Action Over Raghopur Boat Tragedy
Union Minister Chirag Paswan demands accountability after 13 children die in a tragic boat capsize in Vaishali, Bihar.
Union Minister Chirag Paswan has issued a stern warning that officials found guilty of negligence regarding the tragic boat capsize in Bihar's Vaishali district will face strict consequences. The heart-wrenching incident, which occurred in the Raghopur area, has claimed the lives of at least 13 children, all aged 15 or younger.
As the bodies of the young victims are being prepared for cremation today, the Minister visited the Nalanda Medical College Hospital to check on the condition of the rescued children and to offer his condolences to the grieving families.
Demanding Accountability for Negligence
The tragedy has sparked intense local debate, with allegations surfacing that a proper boat was requested by locals but not provided. Addressing these claims, Paswan emphasized the need for a thorough investigation into whether administrative lapses contributed to the disaster.
"Our aim is to stand firmly by their side during this hour of grief and to gather accurate information—including whether there was any negligence involved—since some people have alleged that a boat was requested but not provided. If that is the case, the responsible officials will not be spared," the Minister stated.
He further questioned why so many children were attempting to cross the water late at night without any administrative monitoring or oversight in place to ensure their safety.
Priority on Medical Care and Compensation
During his visit to the hospital, Paswan made it clear that his immediate priority is ensuring that the surviving children receive the highest quality medical treatment. He assured that both the Central and State governments are working in tandem to provide swift assistance to the affected families.
- Medical Support: Ensuring no lapse in the treatment of children currently admitted at Nalanda Medical College Hospital.
- Financial Aid: Compensation has been announced for the families of the deceased to alleviate their immediate distress.
- Government Coordination: A joint effort between the Central and Bihar governments to provide comprehensive support.
The Minister noted that he had stepped away from a Cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to personally assess the situation on the ground and stand with the victims' families.
PM Modi Expresses Grief
Paswan informed that the Prime Minister has been briefed on the tragedy. "When I received news of this incident late last night, the matter was brought to the Prime Minister's notice as well. He, too, regarding this incident, has expressed his grief and condolences," he said.
Describing the incident as a nightmare that no one could have imagined, the Minister vowed to work toward systemic improvements to prevent such a catastrophe from ever occurring again in the region.