Kolkata, 17 March (H.S.) – A devastating road accident occurred on Monday morning near Bagnan in Howrah district, claiming the lives of a monk and a sevak from Bharat Sevashram Sangha. Several others sustained injuries in the tragic crash, which took place around 6:30 AM on the National Highway.

The headquarters of Bharat Sevashram Sangha in Ballygunge, Kolkata, confirmed that Swami Shubhankarananda Maharaj (55) and sevak Basudev (60) lost their lives in the accident. Meanwhile, Swami Amarananda Maharaj suffered severe injuries.

According to district police sources, the vehicle was traveling from Garia-based Bharat Sevashram Sangha Ashram in Kolkata to Mahishadal in East Midnapore. As it approached Bagnan, the driver lost control, causing the vehicle to veer into the opposite lane, where it collided head-on with a speeding sand-laden lorry. The impact was so intense that the vehicle was severely damaged, leading to the immediate death of the monk and the sevak.

Another monk inside the vehicle suffered serious head injuries and has been admitted to Uluberia State General Hospital. The driver and several other sevaks also sustained injuries and are currently receiving medical treatment.

Following the accident, police rushed to the scene and initiated an investigation. The wrecked vehicle has been removed, and authorities are examining whether over-speeding or mechanical failure led to the crash.

This tragic incident has left Bharat Sevashram Sangha devotees and followers in deep mourning. Meanwhile, the police have registered a case against the driver under charges of negligent driving, endangering lives, and culpable homicide not amounting to murder. The accident vehicle has been seized, and further legal action is underway.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh