Odisha septic tank incident leaves six dead; ex-gratia of ₹4 lakh announced

Six people were found dead in an incident described as suspected asphyxiation in a septic tank, The Hindu reported. The deceased were identified as Nimai Pal, Akash Pal, Adal Majhi, Manoranjan Hati, Chhanda Jal, and Bipul Jal. ^[1]

One other person, Pankaj Yani, fell ill and was undergoing treatment in hospital, as authorities responded to the aftermath of the incident. ^[1]

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced financial assistance of ₹4 lakh each from the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund to the next of kin of each person who died. ^[1] Kalahandi Collector Sachin Pawer said the district administration had also released ₹30,000 each to the families for last rites. ^[1]

Odisha Works Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan said the State government would take all measures to avoid such incidents in the future, as official attention turned to both relief and prevention following the deaths and the hospitalization. ^[1]