Gujarat: PM Modi expresses grief over Banaskantha firecracker godown accident, announces Rs 2 lakh ex-gratia

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday expressed grief over a firecracker explosion in Gujarat’s Banaskantha region, which claimed at least 18 lives.

He also announced an ex-gratia payment of Rs 2 lakh to the next of kin of each victim and Rs 50,000 to the injured.

“Deeply saddened by the loss of lives in the explosion at a firecracker factory in Banaskantha, Gujarat. Condolences to those who lost their loved ones. May the injured recover soon. The local administration is assisting those affected,” the Prime Minister’s Office posted on X.

“An ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF would be given to the next of kin of each deceased. The injured would be given Rs 50,000,” it added.

Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel also expressed deep sorrow over the incident and announced financial assistance of Rs 4 lakh to the families of the deceased and Rs 50,000 rupees to the injured.

“I am in constant touch with the administration regarding the relief, rescue and treatment operations in this accident. I have instructed the administration to ensure that the injured get proper treatment at the earliest,” Patel posted on X

According to officials, the explosion at the firecracker godown in the Deesa area on Tuesday morning led to the collapse of the structure, trapping several workers inside.

Banaskantha Superintendent of Police Akshayraj Makwana said that a case has been registered in connection with the incident.

“An FIR is being filed under Section 304 (causing death by negligence), and strict action will be taken against those responsible,” SP Makwana said.

The police have formed five teams to identify and apprehend those responsible for the incident, he added.