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Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed sorrow on Sunday over the deaths in a road accident near Shitla Mata Temple in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh. He also announced financial assistance for the families of those killed and people injured in the incident.
In a statement posted on X, the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) conveyed PM Modi’s condolences to the bereaved families and wished the injured a speedy recovery.
Distressed to learn about the loss of lives due to a mishap in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh. My condolences to the bereaved families. Praying for the speedy recovery of the injured.
An ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF would be given to the next of kin of each of those who lost their lives. The injured would be given Rs. 50,000: PM @narendramodi
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) October 18, 2026
The PMO announced an ex-gratia payment of Rs 2 lakh from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF) for the next of kin of each deceased person. Each injured victim will receive Rs 50,000.
The accident occurred at around 1:30 AM on Sunday when a truck carrying sacks of paddy reportedly lost control while descending a slope near the historic temple, situated around 18 kilometres from Gwalior’s district headquarters.
The vehicle rammed into shops near the temple, striking approximately 50 people. The crash killed 12 people and injured more than 25 others, including two police personnel and several children, an official said.
Police teams reached the scene after receiving information and shifted the injured to hospitals. Around five people remained in critical condition. Authorities moved the bodies to Jaya Arogya Hospital in Gwalior.
The tragedy occurred during Navratri, when large numbers of devotees visit the temple. Authorities are investigating who allowed the truck to enter the route, which typically bans heavy vehicles during the festival.
Officials are examining who authorised the vehicle’s entry and whether negligence contributed to the accident. Further details are awaited as the investigation continues.
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