Crime Branch probe into Sabarimala tragedy begins

Thiruvananthapuram, Jan 16 (PTI) The probe by CrimeBranch wing of Kerala Police to ascertain the cause for theSabarimala stampede that claimed 102 lives, began today.

Crime Branch officials visited the accident spot and tookevidences. Forensic experts also visited Pullmedu area wherethe mishap occurred on Friday, officials said.

Besides, the Crime Branch probe, Kerala government hadalso decided to hold a judicial inquiry into the mishap thatoccurred when over 100 people returning from the shrine werekilled when a jeep went out of control and ploughed intodevotees in a narrow forest stretch at Pullumedu in Idukkidistrict, triggering a stampede.

Initial reports had stated that a minor accidentinvolving a jeep and an autorickshaw led to a commotiontriggering the stampede.