Chatra News: Kharna Festival Turns Tragic, Three Girls Drown in Chatra Pond

Chatra, November 07, 2024: In a heart-wrenching incident, three young girls from Chatra district in Jharkhand tragically drowned in a pond on Thursday. The victims, identified as Vishakha Kumari (10), Kirti Kumari (8) and Anshu Kumari (10), had gone to bathe in a local pond in Dhobey village, under the jurisdiction of Jori Bashishtnagar police station. The incident occurred just before the girls were to partake in the Kharna prasad, a ritual observed during the Chhath Puja festival.

Incident Details: Kharna Ritual Turns Tragic for Local Families

According to local sources, the three girls left their homes to bathe in Barka Aahara, a pond frequently used by villagers. Witnesses report that shortly after entering the water, the girls began to struggle and ultimately drowned. Villagers later discovered one of the bodies floating, raising the alarm that led to the retrieval of all three victims.

Community Reaction to the Chatra Drowning Incident

The village was thrown into deep mourning as news of the tragedy spread. Eyewitnesses recounted how a joyful day of preparations for the Kharna prasad quickly turned into a scene of grief and disbelief. “They were just children, excited for the rituals. This is a devastating loss for all of us,” said a villager, reflecting the collective sorrow gripping the community.

Police and Authorities Respond to the Chatra Tragedy

Upon receiving information, Prabhat Kumar, the officer-in-charge of Bashishtnagar police station, promptly arrived at the scene with a team. The bodies were taken into police custody and later sent to Chatra Sadar Hospital for post-mortem examinations. Authorities have urged locals to be cautious around water bodies, especially during festivals, to prevent future tragedies.

The incident has added a somber note to the Chhath Puja festivities, a festival celebrated widely in Jharkhand and other parts of northern India. The Kharna ritual, observed as part of this significant Hindu festival, holds special importance as devotees prepare offerings after fasting. This tragic accident has underlined the importance of safety during festival activities.