Three hurt as PAC jawan's stray bullet ricochets at Varanasi temple
Stone fragments from accidental gunfire injure three bystanders at sacred Hindu shrine in Uttar Pradesh.
A startling incident unfolded at the iconic Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi when a paramilitary trooper's accidental discharge caused injury to three visitors on Saturday. The bullet struck a nearby stone structure with such force that fragments scattered in multiple directions, striking three local residents who were present at the temple premises.
The three injured individuals have been identified as Nikyni Gupta, Ram Babu, and Vikas Yadav, according to local police statements. Authorities confirmed that the injuries resulted from sharp stone chips that were dislodged by the bullet's impact rather than direct gunshot wounds. The jawan, who is part of the Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) contingent deployed at the temple, has been detained for questioning as investigations proceed.
The Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of India's most revered Hindu pilgrimage sites, hosts thousands of devotees daily. Security forces maintain a significant presence at the shrine due to its religious importance and heavy footfall. Accidental firearm incidents at crowded public spaces remain a serious concern, raising questions about firearm handling protocols and safety procedures during deployment at civilian areas.
The injured persons received medical attention at a local hospital. While their conditions are reported to be stable, the incident has sparked concerns among visitors and temple authorities regarding security personnel's firearms management. Preliminary investigations suggest the discharge occurred due to negligence rather than any intended action. Police have launched a formal inquiry to examine the circumstances leading to the unintentional firing and ensure accountability.
This incident highlights ongoing challenges faced by paramilitary forces when operating in crowded public spaces where civilians are present in large numbers. Authorities are expected to review safety protocols and implement stricter guidelines for weapon handling at religious and high-traffic areas.
Source: Hindustan Times
