Accidental weapon discharge injures three at Kashi Vishwanath Dham
Stray carbine fire at sacred temple injures florists, triggers panic in Varanasi.
An unintended firearm discharge at the Nanu Feria Gate of Kashi Vishwanath Dham in Varanasi left three people injured on Saturday afternoon. The personal security weapon of a personnel accidentally fell, discharging two rounds that struck the ground near the temple complex. The impact sent concrete debris flying, striking nearby florists who were working at the site.
The three injured individuals — Nikky Gupta, Ram Babu, and Vikas Yadav — sustained minor injuries from the flying concrete fragments. They received immediate medical attention at the temple premises and were subsequently discharged after first aid treatment. Officials confirmed that none of the injuries were critical or life-threatening.
The unexpected gunfire created momentary alarm among devotees and staff at the sacred shrine, one of Hinduism's most revered pilgrimage destinations. However, security personnel quickly contained the situation and restored normalcy within minutes. The temple administration coordinated with law enforcement to ensure public safety during the incident.
Authorities have initiated a formal investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accidental discharge. The inquiry will examine whether proper safety protocols were followed and what led to the weapon falling. Such incidents at high-profile religious sites underscore ongoing concerns about firearm safety among security personnel.
Kashi Vishwanath Dham, which underwent extensive renovation in recent years, attracts thousands of visitors daily. The temple complex has stringent security measures in place, and officials are reviewing whether additional safeguards are needed to prevent similar accidents in the future.
Source: Times of India
