Karnataka CM Defends Rs 5 Lakh Compensation for Hassan Lorry Crash Victims
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah stood firm on the Rs 5 lakh ex-gratia payment for families hit by the tragic lorry crash in Hassan, even as opposition parties like BJP push for doubling it to Rs 10 lakh. Speaking to reporters at Mysuru airport on Saturday, the CM explained that this compensation isn’t about fully replacing a lost life—it’s there to offer some comfort and financial support during tough initial days.
"Compensation helps console the grieving families and ensures they don’t face immediate money troubles after losing their loved ones," Siddaramaiah said. He pointed out that the victims were mostly from economically weaker sections, including laborers and engineering students, which is why the government stepped in with this aid. The CM also mentioned that he’s directed Hassan district in-charge Minister Krishna Byre Gowda to personally meet the families, offer condolences, and handle the payout process.
The heartbreaking accident unfolded on Friday evening between 8:00 pm and 8:45 pm in Mosale Hosalli village. A tanker lorry plowed recklessly into a Ganesh immersion procession, killing nine people and injuring over 20 others. Among the deceased were six villagers and three engineering students, as confirmed by Inspector General of Police Boralingaiah. The driver himself suffered injuries in the crash, which officials blame on his fault.
Siddaramaiah has been quick to respond to the Hassan road accident tragedy. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), he expressed deep sorrow: "It’s devastating to hear about lives lost and injuries from the lorry colliding with the Ganesh immersion procession in Hassan. I pray for peace for the departed souls and speedy recovery for the injured. The government will give Rs 5 lakh to each deceased family and cover medical costs for the hurt. Let’s support these families in this painful time."
The CM emphasized road safety efforts by the government but stressed that this incident stemmed from driver error, not state responsibility. He wrapped up by praying for strength to the bereaved families: "May God give them the courage to endure this sorrow."
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also shared his condolences for the Hassan lorry crash victims. In an official statement from the PMO on X, he said the mishap is "heart-rending" and his thoughts are with the families. From the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF), Rs 2 lakh will go to the next of kin of each deceased person, while the injured get Rs 50,000.
As demands grow for higher compensation in Karnataka accidents like this, the focus remains on supporting the affected families and preventing future road tragedies.
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