Ratangarh tragedy echoes in MP Assy

Bhopal, Nov 1 (UNI) The recent Ratangarh tragedy echoed in the Madhya Pradesh Assembly today when opposition MLAs demanded action against the Water Resources Department officials responsible for about 50 pilgrims being swept away in the Sindh river in Datia district after release of water from Shivpuri district's Manikheda dam, which is still under construction.

Raising the matter during the question hour, Mr Ramnivas Rawat (Congress) alleged, ''the department released water without warning.

The victims were en route to the Ratangarh temple. A criminal case should be filed against the officials.'' Pointing out that a judicial inquiry was underway, Water Resources Minister Anup Mishra assured, ''once the report is submitted, action will be initiated against those responsible.'' However, the opposition felt that the officials should be removed forthwith so that the probe was not influenced by them.

All India Congress Committee General Secretary and former chief minister Digvijay Singh said that the Ratangarh tragedy -- similar to the Dharaji (Narmada) tragedy in Dewas district about two years back -- was a result of administrative carelessness.

''A system should be in place whereby districts affected by water release are informed,'' he felt.

UNI PKJ-AC 1954