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<p>Dussehra was celebrated across the country on Saturday with revellers coming out in large numbers to witness the burning of Ravana effigies, marking a spectacular culmination of 10-day of festivities filled with rituals, songs, dance and processions.</p>

<p>Effigies of the demon king, his brother Kumbhakarna and son Meghnad went up in flames on open grounds with the attending crowds erupting as the firecrackers from the burning effigies illuminated the night sky.</p>

<p>Social media platforms were awash with colourful, celebratory posts with people wishing each other health and happiness.</p>

<p>President Droupadi Murmu and&nbsp;Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the festivities at the Red Fort Parade Ground where they were welcomed by the organisers of Sri Dharmik Leela Committee.</p>

<p>Senior Congress leader Sonia Gandhi, Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi, AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal and Delhi Chief Minister Atishi also attended Dussehra festivities amid tight security arrangements.</p>

<p>"Jai Siya Ram! Today I had the good fortune of participating in 'Ravana vadh' during the Dussehra festival at the Ramlila Maidan in Delhi," Rahul Gandhi posted on his WhatsApp channel in Hindi.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/india-slams-bangladesh-over-attacks-on-hindu-temple-calls-it-systematic-pattern-of-desecration-766873">'Systematic desecration': India slams Bangladesh over attacks on Hindu temple</a></strong></p>

<p>"Justice will triumph over injustice and goodness will always triumph over evil --this great festival is the best and most accurate manifestation of this ultimate truth," the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha said.</p>

<p>Huge Durga puja pandals were set up across venues showcasing designs based on a variety of innovative themes including on politics, paintings and iconic monuments.</p>

<p>Pandals were decorated abundantly and lit up colourfully as people came in with families and friends to celebrate the festival.</p>

<p>Ramlila was performed in cities, towns and villages, with actors dressing up as characters from the Ramayan and enacting scenes from the Hindu epic.</p>

<p>But two dreaded criminals took advantage of such a performance in the Haridwar district jail and escaped when Ramlila was being staged.</p>

<p>An incident was reported from Odisha also where gold and silver ornaments worth around Rs 10 lakh were stolen from a Durga Puja pandal at Barundei temple in Jajpur district.</p>

<p>On the occasion, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh performed "Shastra Puja" (worship of weapons) at the Sukna military station in West Bengal, and said the ritual is a "clear indication that if need be, weapons and equipment will be used with full force".</p>

<p>"India has never attacked any country out of hatred or contempt. We fight only when someone insults or tries to harm our integrity and sovereignty; when war is waged against religion, truth and human values. This is what we have inherited. We will continue to preserve this heritage," Singh said in a statement issued by the defence ministry.</p>

<p>"However, if our interests are threatened, we will not hesitate to take a big step. 'Shastra Puja' is a clear indication that if need be, the weapons, equipment will be used with full force," he said.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the External Affairs Ministry expressed "serious concern" over the reported attack on a pandal and theft at a revered Kali temple in Bangladesh, and requested Dhaka to ensure the safety and security of Hindus, all other minorities and their places of worship.</p>

<p>Addressing the annual Vijayadasahmi rally of the RSS in Nagpur, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat said India has become stronger and more respected in the world with enhanced credibility in the last few years but sinister conspiracies are testing the country's resolve.</p>

<p>"A country becomes great due to the national character of its people. This year is important as RSS steps into its centenary year," he said.</p>

<p>The RSS chief said a tyrannical fundamentalist nature exists in Bangladesh. A sword of danger hangs over the heads of minorities, including Hindus. Hindus have now come out to defend themselves, he said, adding that they will need the help of all those favouring humanity and harmony, especially the Indian government and fellow Hindus from all over the world.</p>

<p>"That is why infiltration from Bangladesh into Bharat and the population imbalance caused by it has become a matter of serious concern even among the common people," said Bhagwat.</p>

<p>"Being unorganised and weak is like inviting atrocities by the wicked. Hindus need to be united," he stressed.</p>

<p>Bhagwat said 'Deep State', 'wokeism' and 'cultural Marxist' are declared enemies of all cultural traditions.</p>

<p>Union Home Minister Amit Shah greeted members of the RSS on the occasion of its foundation day and said since its inception, the organisation has been doing a remarkable job of protecting Indian culture and inculcating the ideas of patriotism in youth.</p>

<p>The RSS was founded in 1925 in Nagpur on Vijayadashami.</p>

<p>Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini attended a Dussehra event in Panchkula and extended greetings to the people.</p>

<p>"Everyone should take a pledge today to renounce their inner flaws, so that we contribute to building a civilised and cultured society," he said.</p>

<p>Addressing the Dussehra rally of Shiv Sena at the Azad Maidan ground in south Mumbai, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde said the Lok Sabha poll success of the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) was like a flash in the pan which won't be replicated in the upcoming assembly polls.</p>

<p>Addressing his party's annual Dussehra rally at Shivaji Park in Mumbai, Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray said the RSS should think whether today's "hybrid BJP" is acceptable to it.</p>

<p><em>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for&nbsp;WION&nbsp;audience.</em></p>


Dussehra was celebrated across the country on Saturday with revellers coming out in large numbers to witness the burning of Ravana effigies, marking a spectacular culmination of 10-day of festivities filled with rituals, songs, dance and processions.

Dussehra was celebrated across the country on Saturday with revellers coming out in large numbers to witness the burning of Ravana effigies, marking a spectacular culmination of 10-day of festivities filled with rituals, songs, dance and processions. Effigies of the demon king, his brother Kumbhakarna and son Meghnad went up in flames on open grounds with the attending crowds erupting as the firecrackers from the burning effigies illuminated the night sky. Social media platforms were awash with colourful, celebratory posts with people wishing each other health and happiness. President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the festivities at the Red Fort Parade Ground where they were welcomed by the organisers of Sri Dharmik Leela Committee. Senior Congress leader Sonia Gandhi, Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi, AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal and Delhi Chief Minister Atishi also attended Dussehra festivities amid tight security arrangements. "Jai Siya Ram! Today I had the good fortune of participating in 'Ravana vadh' during the Dussehra festival at the Ramlila Maidan in Delhi," Rahul Gandhi posted on his WhatsApp channel in Hindi. Also read: 'Systematic desecration': India slams Bangladesh over attacks on Hindu temple "Justice will triumph over injustice and goodness will always triumph over evil --this great festival is the best and most accurate manifestation of this ultimate truth," the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha said. Huge Durga puja pandals were set up across venues showcasing designs based on a variety of innovative themes including on politics, paintings and iconic monuments. Pandals were decorated abundantly and lit up colourfully as people came in with families and friends to celebrate the festival. Ramlila was performed in cities, towns and villages, with actors dressing up as characters from the Ramayan and enacting scenes from the Hindu epic. But two dreaded criminals took advantage of such a performance in the Haridwar district jail and escaped when Ramlila was being staged. An incident was reported from Odisha also where gold and silver ornaments worth around Rs 10 lakh were stolen from a Durga Puja pandal at Barundei temple in Jajpur district. On the occasion, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh performed "Shastra Puja" (worship of weapons) at the Sukna military station in West Bengal, and said the ritual is a "clear indication that if need be, weapons and equipment will be used with full force". "India has never attacked any country out of hatred or contempt. We fight only when someone insults or tries to harm our integrity and sovereignty; when war is waged against religion, truth and human values. This is what we have inherited. We will continue to preserve this heritage," Singh said in a statement issued by the defence ministry. "However, if our interests are threatened, we will not hesitate to take a big step. 'Shastra Puja' is a clear indication that if need be, the weapons, equipment will be used with full force," he said. Meanwhile, the External Affairs Ministry expressed "serious concern" over the reported attack on a pandal and theft at a revered Kali temple in Bangladesh, and requested Dhaka to ensure the safety and security of Hindus, all other minorities and their places of worship. Addressing the annual Vijayadasahmi rally of the RSS in Nagpur, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat said India has become stronger and more respected in the world with enhanced credibility in the last few years but sinister conspiracies are testing the country's resolve. "A country becomes great due to the national character of its people. This year is important as RSS steps into its centenary year," he said. The RSS chief said a tyrannical fundamentalist nature exists in Bangladesh. A sword of danger hangs over the heads of minorities, including Hindus. Hindus have now come out to defend themselves, he said, adding that they will need the help of all those favouring humanity and harmony, especially the Indian government and fellow Hindus from all over the world. "That is why infiltration from Bangladesh into Bharat and the population imbalance caused by it has become a matter of serious concern even among the common people," said Bhagwat. "Being unorganised and weak is like inviting atrocities by the wicked. Hindus need to be united," he stressed. Bhagwat said 'Deep State', 'wokeism' and 'cultural Marxist' are declared enemies of all cultural traditions. Union Home Minister Amit Shah greeted members of the RSS on the occasion of its foundation day and said since its inception, the organisation has been doing a remarkable job of protecting Indian culture and inculcating the ideas of patriotism in youth. The RSS was founded in 1925 in Nagpur on Vijayadashami. Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini attended a Dussehra event in Panchkula and extended greetings to the people. "Everyone should take a pledge today to renounce their inner flaws, so that we contribute to building a civilised and cultured society," he said. Addressing the Dussehra rally of Shiv Sena at the Azad Maidan ground in south Mumbai, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde said the Lok Sabha poll success of the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) was like a flash in the pan which won't be replicated in the upcoming assembly polls. Addressing his party's annual Dussehra rally at Shivaji Park in Mumbai, Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray said the RSS should think whether today's "hybrid BJP" is acceptable to it. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

How India celebrated Dussehra 2024: Ravana effigies burn bright as PM Modi, other leaders join festivities

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on the occasion of Vijayadashami, urged people to end distortions like casteism and regionalism in society and said that the festival should also mark the conquest of patriotism over every evil in the country</p>

<p>While addressing a massive crowd at a Dussehra event in New Delhi, Modi highlighted that after a wait of centuries, it is everyone's fortune that they will witness a grand Ram temple being built in Uttar Pradesh's Ayodhya, which he said would take a few more months to complete.</p>

<p>"Today we are fortunate that we are able to see the grandest temple of Lord Rama being built. On the next Ram&nbsp;Navami in Ayodhya, every note echoing in Ramlala's temple will bring joy to the entire world. Only a few months are left for Lord Ram to reside in the Ram Temple," he said.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi: 'Ravan Dahan' being performed at Dwarka Sector 10 Ram Leela, in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on the occasion of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Dussehra?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Dussehra</a> <a href="https://t.co/IYFt5Yjqhk">pic.twitter.com/IYFt5Yjqhk</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1716807762884304955?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 24, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Indian prime minister further asked people to take 10 pledges, including helping at least one poor family to raise its socio-economic status.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/israel-hamas-war-indian-pm-modi-jordan-king-abdullah-ii-discuss-developments-in-west-asia-650395">Israel-Hamas war: Indian PM Modi, Jordan King Abdullah II discuss developments in West Asia</a></p>

<h2><strong>India worships weapons not to dominate any land, but to protect its own: PM Modi</strong></h2>

<p>PM Modi said that weapons in India are worshipped not to dominate any land but to protect its own.</p>

<p>"On Vijayadashami, there is a tradition of 'Shastra Puja' as well. On Indian soil, weapons are worshipped not to dominate any land but to protect its own land. Our Shakti Puja is not just for us but for the welfare of the entire world..." he said.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Greetings on Vijaya Dashami! Speaking at a programme in Delhi. <a href="https://t.co/d7PSTPswL0">https://t.co/d7PSTPswL0</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1716801070855524518?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 24, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Modi then referring to the success of the Chandrayaan-3 mission, said that the country is celebrating the festival after almost two months of the Moon mission.</p>

<p>" I wish all the countrymen a very happy Navratri and Vijayadashami. The festival symbolises the victory of good over evil. This time we are celebrating Vijayadashami when it has been 2 months since our victory over the Moon. We know the knowledge of Gita and also have the capability to build INS Vikrant and Tejas," the PM said.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on the occasion of Vijayadashami, urged people to end distortions like casteism and regionalism in society and said that the festival should also mark the conquest of patriotism over every evil in the country While addressing a massive crowd at a Dussehra event in New Delhi, Modi highlighted that after a wait of centuries, it is everyone's fortune that they will witness a grand Ram temple being built in Uttar Pradesh's Ayodhya, which he said would take a few more months to complete.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on the occasion of Vijayadashami, urged people to end distortions like casteism and regionalism in society and said that the festival should also mark the conquest of patriotism over every evil in the country While addressing a massive crowd at a Dussehra event in New Delhi, Modi highlighted that after a wait of centuries, it is everyone's fortune that they will witness a grand Ram temple being built in Uttar Pradesh's Ayodhya, which he said would take a few more months to complete. "Today we are fortunate that we are able to see the grandest temple of Lord Rama being built. On the next Ram Navami in Ayodhya, every note echoing in Ramlala's temple will bring joy to the entire world. Only a few months are left for Lord Ram to reside in the Ram Temple," he said. #WATCH | Delhi: 'Ravan Dahan' being performed at Dwarka Sector 10 Ram Leela, in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on the occasion of #Dussehra pic.twitter.com/IYFt5Yjqhk — ANI (@ANI) October 24, 2023 × The Indian prime minister further asked people to take 10 pledges, including helping at least one poor family to raise its socio-economic status. Also read: Israel-Hamas war: Indian PM Modi, Jordan King Abdullah II discuss developments in West Asia India worships weapons not to dominate any land, but to protect its own: PM Modi PM Modi said that weapons in India are worshipped not to dominate any land but to protect its own. "On Vijayadashami, there is a tradition of 'Shastra Puja' as well. On Indian soil, weapons are worshipped not to dominate any land but to protect its own land. Our Shakti Puja is not just for us but for the welfare of the entire world..." he said. Greetings on Vijaya Dashami! Speaking at a programme in Delhi. https://t.co/d7PSTPswL0 — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 24, 2023 × Modi then referring to the success of the Chandrayaan-3 mission, said that the country is celebrating the festival after almost two months of the Moon mission. " I wish all the countrymen a very happy Navratri and Vijayadashami. The festival symbolises the victory of good over evil. This time we are celebrating Vijayadashami when it has been 2 months since our victory over the Moon. We know the knowledge of Gita and also have the capability to build INS Vikrant and Tejas," the PM said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

PM Modi attends Dussehra celebrations in Delhi, urges people to end casteism, regionalism

Dussehra 2021: From 'Swades' to 'Delhi 6'- Bollywood movies that incorporated Ramlila in their plot

Unique ways of celebrating Dussehra in different states of India

A day after hundreds of effigies of demon king Ravana were burnt in the national capital on the occasion of Dussehra, the air quality of the region has worsened.

Air Quality in New Delhi Worsens After Dussehra celebrations

<p>"Negligence" of people led to last month's Amritsar tragedy in which 60 people were mowed down by a train as they watched Dussehra celebrations while standing on a railway track, the Chief Commissioner of Railway Safety said in his provisional report on Thursday, virtually giving the railways a clean chit in the case.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Having carefully considered the factual material and circumstantial evidences so far available at my disposal, I have provisionally come to the conclusion that the unfortunate incident of running over of 60 persons near Jaura-Fatak near Amritsar railway station of Ferozpur division of Northern Railways on October 19, 2018 at 6:55 pm occurred due to the negligence of persons reportedly standing on and near railway track witnessing Dussehra Mela at Dhobi Ghat," CCCRS S K Pathak said in the report.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He has further classified the accident as "error in working by public near railway line" and made a slew of recommendations to avoid such accidents in the future.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Commission of Railway Safety, works under the administrative control of the Ministry of Civil Aviation and deals with matters pertaining to safety of rail travel and train operation and is tasked with certain statutory functions to investigate railway accidents.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During its enquiry, Pathak noticed that the spot of the incident was not visible till the train was within 20 metres of the revellers due to the S-curve.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The incident took place at a time when there was smoke in the air due to firecrackers and burning of Ravana's effigy, the report said.&nbsp;<br />
It also stated that while the permissible speed on this section was 100 kmph, the train was running at a speed of 82 kmph when the loco pilot saw the crowd and applied brakes. In the trial, it was seen that the braking distance of the train was 389 metres.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the report, 50 policemen were present at the spot and despite them trying to move the crowd away from the tracks, the people did not oblige.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Railways, which had initially refused to hold an enquiry into the matter and termed the case as one of 'trespassing', had only relented when Congress MP from Amritsar Gurjeet Singh Aujla met Minister of Railways Piyush Goyal and pushed for a CCRS enquiry into the matter.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The CCRS in his report has also recommended that prior intimation to railway administration should be given by the district administration/organisers to hold big events like rallies so that railway can take proper precautions in consultation with stakeholders.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It has also said that both the Government Railway Police (GRP), as well as the Railway Protection Force (RPF), should hold regular meetings with the state police and update all such events where large gatherings are expected in a calendar so that steps can be taken in advance to avoid such incidents.&nbsp;</p>

<p>State administration in coordination with railway administration should also impart training and sensitise residents especially those living in the vicinity of tracks in urban areas of the dangers of straying on the tracks and the penalties that could be imposed, the report said.</p>

<p>It also asked the authorities to conduct awareness programmes and workshops in schools, interaction with loco drivers who have witnessed accidents to leave a lasting impression on the minds of youngsters on the dangers of straying on the tracks. &nbsp;</p>


"Negligence" of people led to last month's Amritsar tragedy in which 60 people were mowed down by a train as they watched Dussehra celebrations while standing on a railway track, the Chief Commissioner of Railway Safety said in his provisional report on Thursday, virtually giving the railways a clean chit in the case.

"Negligence" of people led to last month's Amritsar tragedy in which 60 people were mowed down by a train as they watched Dussehra celebrations while standing on a railway track, the Chief Commissioner of Railway Safety said in his provisional report on Thursday, virtually giving the railways a clean chit in the case. "Having carefully considered the factual material and circumstantial evidences so far available at my disposal, I have provisionally come to the conclusion that the unfortunate incident of running over of 60 persons near Jaura-Fatak near Amritsar railway station of Ferozpur division of Northern Railways on October 19, 2018 at 6:55 pm occurred due to the negligence of persons reportedly standing on and near railway track witnessing Dussehra Mela at Dhobi Ghat," CCCRS S K Pathak said in the report. He has further classified the accident as "error in working by public near railway line" and made a slew of recommendations to avoid such accidents in the future. The Commission of Railway Safety, works under the administrative control of the Ministry of Civil Aviation and deals with matters pertaining to safety of rail travel and train operation and is tasked with certain statutory functions to investigate railway accidents. During its enquiry, Pathak noticed that the spot of the incident was not visible till the train was within 20 metres of the revellers due to the S-curve. The incident took place at a time when there was smoke in the air due to firecrackers and burning of Ravana's effigy, the report said. It also stated that while the permissible speed on this section was 100 kmph, the train was running at a speed of 82 kmph when the loco pilot saw the crowd and applied brakes. In the trial, it was seen that the braking distance of the train was 389 metres. According to the report, 50 policemen were present at the spot and despite them trying to move the crowd away from the tracks, the people did not oblige. Railways, which had initially refused to hold an enquiry into the matter and termed the case as one of 'trespassing', had only relented when Congress MP from Amritsar Gurjeet Singh Aujla met Minister of Railways Piyush Goyal and pushed for a CCRS enquiry into the matter. The CCRS in his report has also recommended that prior intimation to railway administration should be given by the district administration/organisers to hold big events like rallies so that railway can take proper precautions in consultation with stakeholders. It has also said that both the Government Railway Police (GRP), as well as the Railway Protection Force (RPF), should hold regular meetings with the state police and update all such events where large gatherings are expected in a calendar so that steps can be taken in advance to avoid such incidents. State administration in coordination with railway administration should also impart training and sensitise residents especially those living in the vicinity of tracks in urban areas of the dangers of straying on the tracks and the penalties that could be imposed, the report said. It also asked the authorities to conduct awareness programmes and workshops in schools, interaction with loco drivers who have witnessed accidents to leave a lasting impression on the minds of youngsters on the dangers of straying on the tracks.

Negligence of people on tracks led to Amritsar tragedy, says CCRS report

Durga Pooja 2018: Kajol, Katrina Kaif, Varun Dhawan dress up in their festive best

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin on Saturday offered his condolences to the victims of Amritsar train accident in which around 60 people were crushed to death by a running train.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin has offered condolences to President of India Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the Amritsar train accident, news agency ANI reported.</p>

<p>The accident took place when a DMU (diesel multiple unit) train ran over the people who were watching Dussehra celebrations in Choura Bazar yesterday.</p>

<p>''I offer my deepest sympathies over tragic consequences of an accident on railways in Punjab. I ask to convey my words of sympathy and support to families and friends of killed people,'' Putin's condolances message said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Russian president also wished ''soonest recovery'' to those injured.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I offer my deepest sympathies over tragic consequences of an accident on railways in Punjab. I ask to convey my words of sympathy&amp;support to families &amp; friends of killed people &amp; to wish soonest recovery to those injured: Russia President Vladimir Putin on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AmritsarTrainAccident?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AmritsarTrainAccident</a> <a href="https://t.co/h3MlcB786t">pic.twitter.com/h3MlcB786t</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1053527404839399424?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Russian President Vladimir Putin on Saturday offered his condolences to the victims of Amritsar train accident in which around 60 people were crushed to death by a running train.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Saturday offered his condolences to the victims of Amritsar train accident in which around 60 people were crushed to death by a running train. Russian President Vladimir Putin has offered condolences to President of India Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the Amritsar train accident, news agency ANI reported. The accident took place when a DMU (diesel multiple unit) train ran over the people who were watching Dussehra celebrations in Choura Bazar yesterday. ''I offer my deepest sympathies over tragic consequences of an accident on railways in Punjab. I ask to convey my words of sympathy and support to families and friends of killed people,'' Putin's condolances message said. The Russian president also wished ''soonest recovery'' to those injured. I offer my deepest sympathies over tragic consequences of an accident on railways in Punjab. I ask to convey my words of sympathy&support to families & friends of killed people & to wish soonest recovery to those injured: Russia President Vladimir Putin on #AmritsarTrainAccident pic.twitter.com/h3MlcB786t — ANI (@ANI) October 20, 2018 ×

Amritsar train accident: Russian President Vladimir Putin expresses condolences 

<p>Municipal corporation councillor Vijay Madan and her son Sourabh Madan Mithu, the main organisers of the Dussehra celebration in Amritsar where at least 60 people were run over by a passing train, have gone underground with other family members.</p>

<p>According to police, a few people angry over the accident attacked their residence, broke window panes and pelted stones on Saturday.</p>

<p>Following this, the Madan family members have gone to an undisclosed location and also switched off their mobile phones. However, police personnel have been deployed at the residence.</p>

<p>Vijay Madan is the sitting councillor from ward number 29 falling under the Amritsar East assembly constituency. The Madan family members were the main organisers of the Dussehra event where the train accident took place.</p>

<p>The accident happened when a crowd of Dussehra revellers spilled onto the railway tracks near Joda Phatak and could not see the train approaching them. They were crushed under the wheels of the train coming from Jalandhar and heading towards Amritsar station.</p>

<p>The Indian Railways has said it was not informed by the organisers or the local administration that a Dussehra event was being organised close to railway tracks.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Municipal corporation councillor Vijay Madan and her son Sourabh Madan Mithu, the main organisers of the Dussehra celebration in Amritsar where at least 60 people were run over by a passing train, have gone underground with other family members.

Municipal corporation councillor Vijay Madan and her son Sourabh Madan Mithu, the main organisers of the Dussehra celebration in Amritsar where at least 60 people were run over by a passing train, have gone underground with other family members. According to police, a few people angry over the accident attacked their residence, broke window panes and pelted stones on Saturday. Following this, the Madan family members have gone to an undisclosed location and also switched off their mobile phones. However, police personnel have been deployed at the residence. Vijay Madan is the sitting councillor from ward number 29 falling under the Amritsar East assembly constituency. The Madan family members were the main organisers of the Dussehra event where the train accident took place. The accident happened when a crowd of Dussehra revellers spilled onto the railway tracks near Joda Phatak and could not see the train approaching them. They were crushed under the wheels of the train coming from Jalandhar and heading towards Amritsar station. The Indian Railways has said it was not informed by the organisers or the local administration that a Dussehra event was being organised close to railway tracks.

Amritsar train accident: Councillor behind Dussehra event goes undergound

<p>Over 60 people have been dead and at least 70 were left injured on Friday when a speeding train mowed them down while they were celebrating Dussehra.</p>

<p>According to reports, people were burning Dussehra effigy near the railway track in Choura Bazar area in Amritsar when a train ran into the crowd.</p>

<p>Punjab govt has declared state mourning on Saturday. All offices and educational institutions will remain closed in view of the tragedy. Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh has ordered a probe into the train disaster.</p>

<p>According to CPRO, Northern Railways, "Ravan effigy was being burnt 70-80 m from the gate, when the effigy fell, people present there ran towards the railway track, at the time a train was passing and level crossing there was shut. As per initial info 30-35 people injured."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> The moment when the DMU train 74943 stuck people watching Dussehra celebrations in Choura Bazar near <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Amritsar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Amritsar</a> (Source:Mobile footage-Unverified) <a href="https://t.co/cmX0Tq2pFE">pic.twitter.com/cmX0Tq2pFE</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1053298048103837696?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 19, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>However, two trains arrived from the opposite direction at the same time giving little opportunity to people to escape.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The victims reportedly could not hear the hooting of the train due to the exploding crackers. Witnesses said the dead included children. There were&nbsp;around 300 people at the accident spot, news&nbsp;agency PTI said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"There are not enough words to mourn the Amritsar train tragedy that claims so many innocent lives. My deepest condolences to the families who lost their loved ones. The incident needs to be probed as it casts serious question on administration,"&nbsp;Union Minister Harsimrat Kaur Badal told ANI.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">There are not enough words to mourn the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Amritsar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Amritsar</a> train tragedy that claims so many innocent lives. My deepest condolences to the families who lost their loved ones. The incident needs to be probed as it casts serious question on administration:Union Minister Harsimrat Kaur Badal <a href="https://t.co/mdC6gWT8YY">pic.twitter.com/mdC6gWT8YY</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1053330340171771904?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 19, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>"Shocked and deeply saddened by the tragic train incident that occurred in Amritsar. My heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims. I pray for the injured to recover quickly. Railways are conducting immediate relief and rescue operations," Goyal tweeted from the US where he had gone to attend an event.</p>

<p>While Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh announced Rs. 5 lakh for kin of each dead and free treatment for the injured as well as Rs 50,000 for the injured. Officials said there was no decision as yet on any compensation from the railways.</p>

<p>Opposition parties blamed the Congress-led state government for allowing Dussehra celebrations near the tracks.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The effigy of Ravan was burnt&amp;I had just left the site when the incident happened. Priority is to get the injured treated. Dussehra celebrations are held there every year. People who are doing politics over this incident should be ashamed : Navjot Kaur Sidhu,on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Amritsar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Amritsar</a> accident <a href="https://t.co/QEsjoEdzS3">pic.twitter.com/QEsjoEdzS3</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1053311512570482688?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 19, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> Eyewitness at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Amritsar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Amritsar</a> accident site says, "Congress had organised Dussehra celebrations here without permission. Navjot Singh Sidhu's wife was the chief guest at the celebrations and she continued to give a speech as people were struck down by the train." <a href="https://t.co/rcsxbVxiB9">pic.twitter.com/rcsxbVxiB9</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1053302211487428608?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 19, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Over 60 people have been dead and at least 70 were left injured on Friday when a speeding train mowed them down while they were celebrating Dussehra. According to reports, people were burning Dussehra effigy near the railway track in Choura Bazar area in Amritsar when a train ran into the crowd.

Over 60 people have been dead and at least 70 were left injured on Friday when a speeding train mowed them down while they were celebrating Dussehra. According to reports, people were burning Dussehra effigy near the railway track in Choura Bazar area in Amritsar when a train ran into the crowd. Punjab govt has declared state mourning on Saturday. All offices and educational institutions will remain closed in view of the tragedy. Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh has ordered a probe into the train disaster. According to CPRO, Northern Railways, "Ravan effigy was being burnt 70-80 m from the gate, when the effigy fell, people present there ran towards the railway track, at the time a train was passing and level crossing there was shut. As per initial info 30-35 people injured." #WATCH The moment when the DMU train 74943 stuck people watching Dussehra celebrations in Choura Bazar near #Amritsar (Source:Mobile footage-Unverified) pic.twitter.com/cmX0Tq2pFE — ANI (@ANI) October 19, 2018 × However, two trains arrived from the opposite direction at the same time giving little opportunity to people to escape. The victims reportedly could not hear the hooting of the train due to the exploding crackers. Witnesses said the dead included children. There were around 300 people at the accident spot, news agency PTI said. "There are not enough words to mourn the Amritsar train tragedy that claims so many innocent lives. My deepest condolences to the families who lost their loved ones. The incident needs to be probed as it casts serious question on administration," Union Minister Harsimrat Kaur Badal told ANI. There are not enough words to mourn the #Amritsar train tragedy that claims so many innocent lives. My deepest condolences to the families who lost their loved ones. The incident needs to be probed as it casts serious question on administration:Union Minister Harsimrat Kaur Badal pic.twitter.com/mdC6gWT8YY — ANI (@ANI) October 19, 2018 × "Shocked and deeply saddened by the tragic train incident that occurred in Amritsar. My heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims. I pray for the injured to recover quickly. Railways are conducting immediate relief and rescue operations," Goyal tweeted from the US where he had gone to attend an event. While Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh announced Rs. 5 lakh for kin of each dead and free treatment for the injured as well as Rs 50,000 for the injured. Officials said there was no decision as yet on any compensation from the railways. Opposition parties blamed the Congress-led state government for allowing Dussehra celebrations near the tracks. The effigy of Ravan was burnt&I had just left the site when the incident happened. Priority is to get the injured treated. Dussehra celebrations are held there every year. People who are doing politics over this incident should be ashamed : Navjot Kaur Sidhu,on #Amritsar accident pic.twitter.com/QEsjoEdzS3 — ANI (@ANI) October 19, 2018 × #WATCH Eyewitness at #Amritsar accident site says, "Congress had organised Dussehra celebrations here without permission. Navjot Singh Sidhu's wife was the chief guest at the celebrations and she continued to give a speech as people were struck down by the train." pic.twitter.com/rcsxbVxiB9 — ANI (@ANI) October 19, 2018 ×

Over 60 dead, at least 72 injured in Amritsar train accident, Punjab declares mourning