Three Survived
Eleven people from Jaipur had come to Tonk for a picnic in the Banas River on Tuesday after celebrating Eid al-Adha. Three of them remained on the bank preparing food, while eight went into the Banas River to bathe. They began to drown after venturing into deeper water. Some people on the bank shouted for help, attracting a crowd who started pulling the drowning individuals out of the water.
Those Who Died
Naushad (35), resident of Hasanpura; Kasim, resident of Hasanpura; Farhan, resident of Hasanpura; Rizwan (26), resident of Ghatgate; Nawab Khan (28), resident of Panipech Kacchi Basti; Ballu, resident of Ghatgate; Sajid (20), resident of Panipech Kacchi Basti; and Naveed (30), resident of Ramganj Bazaar.
All Aged 20 to 30
Locals reported that all the deceased were young, aged between 20 and 30 years. It was suggested that they may not have known how to swim, or may have drowned while trying to save each other. Police are currently gathering further information.
CM Bhajan Lal Sharma Expresses Grief
Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma expressed his sorrow over the incident. He wrote on social media platform ‘X’: “The news of the young men drowning in the Banas River in Tonk district is extremely sad and painful. Instructions have been given to the district administration officials to immediately conduct rescue and relief operations. I pray to God to grant peace to the departed souls and give the bereaved families the strength to bear this immense grief. Om Shanti!”
Sachin Pilot Expresses Condolences