Chennai: Several politicians cutting across party lines expressed their condolences to the families of the persons who lost their life at Appar Swamy Chariot festival in Thanjavur on Wednesday. Around 11 devotees lost their lives and 15 persons suffered injuries after a chariot came in contact with an overhead livewire during Chithirai festivities in Thanjavur on Wednesday.
Taking to social media, Tamil Nadu Opposition leader Edappadi K Palaniswami said, "I was deeply saddened to learn that 11 persons were electrocuted at the Thanjavur, Kalimedu Upper Temple Chariot Festival. I extend my deepest condolences to the families of the victims and wish the patients a speedy recovery."
"Tamil Nadu government should take immediate action and provide proper compensation for the families of the deceased and the injured," he said.
Further, AIADMK announced ex gratia of Rs 1 lakh to each of the next kin of the 11 deceased persons. The party also announced an assistance of Rs 25,000 to 15 injured persons.
In a tweet in Tamil, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said, "I am deeply saddened to learn about the deceased in Thanjavur. I extend my deepest condolences to the families of the victims of this accident. Prayers for the speedy recovery of the injured."
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Union Minister of Civil Aviation Jyotiraditya Scindia said, “The news of the loss of many lives in the tragic accident that took place during the procession in Thanjavur district of Tamil Nadu is saddening. May God give peace to the souls of those who died in this accident and strength to their families to bear this loss.”
Meanwhile, MP Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan said, "Deeply pained by the news of the untimely demise of many precious lives in an accident during the procession in Thanjavur district of Tamil Nadu."
"I pray to Almighty God to grant Sadgati to the departed souls and strength to the bereaved family members," he added.