India: 46 die, including 37 children, in Bihar during festival of ‘well-being’

At least 46 people died in the eastern Indian state of Bihar over the last 24 hours in separate drowning incidents during the celebration of the 'Jivitputrika' festival. The festival was celebrated on Wednesday (Sep 25) and deaths have been reported from at least 15 districts of the state, the government said. During the 'Jivitputrika' festival, women observe fast for the well-being of their children and both take holy dips in rivers and ponds.

A statement issued by the state Disaster Management Department (DMD) said, “A total of 43 bodies have been recovered so far. Further search operation is on."

Chief Minister Nitish Kumarhas announced a compensation of ₹ 4 lakh ($4,800) for the next of kin of those who died. The government added that the families of eight victims have already received the compensation.

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"The incidents of drowning were reported from East and West Champaran, Nalanda, Aurangabad, Kaimur, Buxar, Siwan, Rohtas, Saran, Patna, Vaishali, Muzaffarpur, Samastipur, Gopalganj and Arwal districts,” the statement said.

Most of the victims in the tragedy were children, with government putting the official toll at 37 for children and 7 for women. However, the toll is expected to rise as more bodies are recovered by the authorities.

At least eight children drowned in Aurangabad district alone, followed by four in Itahat village in Baruna and four in Kushaha village of Madanpur.

Aurangabad District Magistrate Srikant Shastri said, "The incidents took place when the victims, along with their family members, went for a holy dip in the water bodies."

(With inputs from agencies)