Sabarimala, May 20 (UNI) In a shocking incident, a 60-year-old woman Ayyappa devotee was electrocuted to death while trying to open a drinking water tap at Pamba, leading to protest by Sabarimala Ayyappa Seva Samajam (SASS) demanding a probe into the incident and compensation for the victim from Telangana.
SASS National Chairman SJR Kumar has strongly condemned the incident and demanded an immediate and thorough probe into the cause of the tragic loss of life.
"The unfortunate incident occurred when she attempted to open the drinking water tap in shed number two while returning after Darshan at the Lord Ayyappa temple in Sabarimala on Monday evening. Despite being rushed to Pampa Hospital, her life could not be saved."
"It is unlikely that a normal 220V supply would result in such a sudden death, raising serious concerns about a potential surge in the electric supply. This needs to be investigated urgently," he said.
The SASS also calls for an inquiry into whether immediate and timely first aid and medical assistance were provided, which could have potentially averted this tragic outcome.
The victim was identified as E. Bharathamma, a resident of Gopalpet Mandal, Mahabubnagar, Telangana.
Considering the financially vulnerable background of the deceased, whose husband passed away 25 years ago, leaving behind a son and a daughter dependent on her, the Sabarimala Ayyappa Seva Samajam demands that the bereaved family be provided with suitable compensation.
The Samajam also urged the concerned authorities to take immediate and necessary steps to prevent any such occurrences and negligence in Sabarimala in the future, ensuring the safety and well-being of all pilgrims.
He also demanded a probe by a team of expert engineers from the Kerala Electrical Inspectorate to determine whether the Travancore Devaswom Board or the Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) is responsible for the electrical installations at the site.
He also condoled the tragic death of the devotee and conveyed his deep sympathies to her grieving family.
UNI DS BD