In a significant development following the Bargi Dam cruise tragedy, a district court in Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, has taken suo motu cognisance of the incident. The court directed the police to register an FIR against the boat driver and crew members due to serious lapses in rescue efforts. The tragedy occurred on April 30 when a state tourism department-operated cruise boat capsized in the Bargi Dam reservoir, resulting in 13 fatalities and 28 passengers being rescued.
The Judicial Magistrate highlighted the failure of the boat driver and crew members to attempt rescuing drowning passengers, deeming it an attempt to commit culpable homicide. The court instructed the Bargi police station to register the FIR within two days and report back. Concerns have been raised over safety protocols and operational accountability following the incident, with the court emphasizing the need for legal action to prevent future negligence.
Fresh concerns have arisen regarding the handling of the vessel post-retrieval from the reservoir. Survivors objected to the dismantling of the cruise boat, stating that it compromised crucial evidence. An advocate representing survivors questioned the decision, emphasizing the importance of a detailed forensic examination of the vessel’s engine and structural integrity. Responding to these concerns, the Bargi City Superintendent of Police clarified the reasons behind dismantling the vessel for rescue protocol compliance.
