2 minors drown during AAP MP Seechewal's ‘ghat-snan’ function

Two minor boys aged 13 and 15 years — both residents of Ram Das Nagar — drowned near a ghat at Tajpur Road, where water of Buddha Nullah flows in depth. A ‘ghat-snan’ function was being organised by AAP MP Balbir Singh Seechewal, an environmentalist and his team to show that the water body near Balaji Pul, Tajpur Road, was cleaned and the water was transparent. Hundreds of his followers had gathered to take part in the event when the incident took place.

During the event, the two boys — who went to take a dip in the nullah — drowned. Though there were hundreds of people at the event, none risked their life to save them. After some time, with the help of divers,  both the bodies were fished out. The deceased's bodies were sent for post-mortem.

Balbir Singh Seechewal said the function was held to celebrate the ‘ceasefire’ between the two countries. “Unfortunately, the incident took place, wherein two boys drowned. The volunteers were told not to go to that particular side as it was deep, but they still went,” he said.

Condemning this incident for meagre publicity, Pritpal Singh Baliawal, the spokesperson of Punjab BJP, said, “This tragic loss appears to be the direct result of a poorly managed event organised by Baba Balbir Singh Seechewal. The event, held under the pretence of cleaning the Buddha Nullah, was primarily a publicity-driven effort aimed at gaining praise rather than ensuring public safety. Locals were invited to participate, but sadly, the necessary safety precautions and arrangements were completely lacking. Due to this gross negligence, two innocent lives were lost. What is even more disturbing is the response of the administration. Instead of taking swift action by filing an FIR and holding those responsible accountable, they seem more focused on shielding Seechewal. There are also alarming reports that pressure is being put on the families of the deceased to stay silent in an apparent attempt to cover up the matter. This is not only unjust but also deeply insensitive to the grief of the affected families,” alleged Baliawal.

He urged the authorities to act without bias or delay and said that an FIR must be immediately registered against Seechewal and all those responsible for organising the event. A thorough and transparent investigation must follow, so that justice is served and accountability is ensured, he added.