By News Karnataka Editorial Team

Copyright newskarnataka

Around 20 people, mostly children, were injured after a pot of hot porridge accidentally spilt on them during an annadanam (food distribution) organised as part of Dasara celebrations at the Durga Devi Mandapam in Seethampeta on Saturday.

Chief Minister expresses concern

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu expressed deep concern over the incident, according to a statement released by the state’s Information and Public Relations (I&PR) department on Sunday.

The Chief Minister spoke to the district collector to inquire about the health condition of the injured children and directed the Visakhapatnam district administration to ensure they receive the best possible medical care.

Six children sustain serious injuries

According to the district collector, 20 children were taken to the hospital, of which six sustained relatively serious burn injuries and are under treatment. The remaining children, who suffered minor injuries, were administered first aid and later discharged.

Officials confirmed that all the injured children are in stable condition and that there is no danger to their lives.

Incident during temple food distribution

The accident occurred during an annadanam programme near the Bellam Ganapathi temple when a pot of hot porridge tipped over, spilling onto children gathered for the meal.

Authorities said the event was part of community offerings during the ongoing Dasara festivities. The collector assured that officials are closely monitoring the children’s health and that the temple organisers are cooperating with the inquiry into how the accident occurred.

District administration monitoring situation

The Visakhapatnam district administration has been instructed to maintain constant supervision at the hospital where the injured are being treated. Officials have also been directed to review safety arrangements during public events, particularly those involving large food distribution programmes.

Chief Minister Naidu reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring public safety during religious celebrations and extended his wishes for the speedy recovery of all the injured children.