46 drown during Jitiya festival in Bihar; Nitish Kumar announces ex-gratia

During the Jivitputrika festival in Bihar, 46 people, including 37 children, drowned while taking holy dips in rivers and ponds. The festival, which is observed for the well-being of children, saw drownings across 15 districts, including East Champaran, Aurangabad, Kaimur, and Patna.

According to the Bihar Disaster Management Department, 43 bodies have been recovered, and search operations are ongoing to find three missing individuals. National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) teams have been deployed for rescue efforts.

Aurangabad reported the highest casualties, with eight children drowning in two separate incidents. Kaimur followed with seven deaths, while other districts reported scattered fatalities. Most victims were children, accompanied by family members for a holy dip, which turned tragic.

Chief Minister Nitish Kumar expressed grief over the incidents and announced an ex-gratia of ₹4 lakh for the families of the deceased. Eight families have already received the compensation, and the process continues for the remaining victims’ kin.

This year’s death toll during the Jivitputrika festival marks a significant rise from last year, where 22 people had drowned during the celebrations. Authorities have urged caution during future celebrations near water bodies.