📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Rohan Pawar
Local
Sixteen dead as Shitala Mata Temple collapses in Gwalior; eyewitness statements pending
✍️ Amar Ujala · Madhya Pradesh
🗓 29 Oct 2026, 04:01 PM
👁 14
A structural collapse at the Shitala Mata Temple in Gwalior on Thursday left 16 people dead. Three days after the incident, no eyewitness has yet given a statement, while officials are scheduled to testify later this week.
The Shitala Mata Temple in Gwalior suffered a sudden structural failure on Thursday, resulting in the death of 16 devotees and injuring several others. Rescue teams worked through the night to clear debris and transport the injured to nearby hospitals.
A magistrate‑led inquiry was opened immediately, but three days after the tragedy no eyewitness has appeared before investigators to provide a formal statement. Local media report that several survivors are reluctant to speak, citing shock and fear of legal repercussions.
Administrative officials are slated to give their accounts on Thursday, followed by police officers on Friday, as part of the ongoing fact‑finding mission. Authorities say the testimonies will help determine whether the collapse was due to structural negligence, overcrowding, or other factors.
The state government has promised a thorough investigation and has urged the public to cooperate with officials. Families of the victims are awaiting answers and compensation, while the temple remains closed pending safety clearance.
A magistrate‑led inquiry was opened immediately, but three days after the tragedy no eyewitness has appeared before investigators to provide a formal statement. Local media report that several survivors are reluctant to speak, citing shock and fear of legal repercussions.
Administrative officials are slated to give their accounts on Thursday, followed by police officers on Friday, as part of the ongoing fact‑finding mission. Authorities say the testimonies will help determine whether the collapse was due to structural negligence, overcrowding, or other factors.
The state government has promised a thorough investigation and has urged the public to cooperate with officials. Families of the victims are awaiting answers and compensation, while the temple remains closed pending safety clearance.