The Chhath puja celebrations have turned sore after in a shocking accident 17 people lost their lives in Adalat Ganj Ghat in the Capital Patna. The incident is a result of  a stampede that took place after a bamboo bridge collapsed as the devotees rushed to the site, forcing them into a narrow lane. Eyewitnesses said that they tried to call the police "many times but we received no response from their end". The negligence of police is highly condemned.

Meanwhile, sensing opportunity, the Opposition has slammed Chief Minister Nitish Kumar for negligence. "It's the government's fault. I have been saying for three days now that proper arrangements have not been made. I've been saying an accident could take place and it has happened," said Ram Kirpal Yadav, an opposition leader. Lalu Prasad Yadav has also blamed government for the incident.

However, CM Nitish Kumar appealed for calm , naming it an unfortunate incident. He announced a  compensation of Rs 2 lakh each for the families of those killed in the stampede. He also ordered a high level inquiry to find out the cause and manner of negligence if any.

(video source: CNN-IBN)

(AW-Jyotishman)