Surajkund Mela joyride accident collapse: Haryana police forms SIT to probe fatal Faridabad tragedy India News

New Delhi: The Haryana police has formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to investigate the fatal accident at Surajkund International Crafts Mela in Faridabad, which resulted in the death of on-duty police inspector Jagdish Prasad and injuries to several others.According to police officials, the SIT will be headed by ACP (crime) Varun Dahiya and will include sub-inspector Sheeshpal and sub-inspector Sanjay from the crime branch of the NIT. The investigation will be supervised by DCP (Crime) Mukesh Malhotra on the instructions of Haryana Inspector General of Police Ajay Singhal.The SIT has been tasked with conducting a detailed investigation into the circumstances leading to the collapse of the giant ‘tsunami’ swing during the 39th Surajkund Mela on Saturday night. About 19 people were on the ride when it careened mid-air and crashed to the ground.Inspector Jagdish Prasad (58), who was posted on duty at the fair, died while trying to rescue people trapped in the rides. Twelve others, including police officers and civilians, were injured in the incident.Announcing compensation and a government job to the family of the deceased, Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini said the incident was deeply painful and assured full support to the affected families. He told reporters that the government was immediately aware of the accident and ordered a thorough investigation to identify errors.“The government stands firmly with the family of Inspector Jagdish Prasad. He lost his life while saving others. We will provide all possible assistance including financial support and a government job to one of his children,” the chief minister said. He added that those seriously injured will be given Rs 100,000 each while the cost of treatment for all the injured will be borne by the state.The police have registered an FIR in the case and arrested Mohammad Shakir, owner of Himachal Fun Care Company, which operates the ride, and his employee Nitesh. They have been charged with manslaughter not amounting to murder. Investigators are looking into possible safety violations and possible criminal negligence.Meanwhile, the amusement park at the Surajkund Mela venue has been closed with immediate effect, but the show itself is still going ahead as planned. The district administration has also constituted a separate ADC-level investigation committee to look into the technical and mechanical aspects of the accident.Officials said a detailed report will be prepared to determine the exact cause of the collapse and determine responsibility. Strict action will be taken against those found guilty, the authorities added.The Surajkund International Crafts Festival held every year in Faridabad is one of the largest cultural festivals in India and this year it is held from January 31 to February 15.