Karnataka Leaders Express Sorrow Over Deaths of Eight Pilgrims in Andhra Pradesh Accident

Key Takeaways

Tragic Accident: Eight pilgrims lost their lives in a road collision.

Political Response: Leaders have publicly mourned and demanded action.

Support for Families: Calls for immediate compensation and medical aid.

Community Impact: The incident has deeply affected the local community.

Ongoing Investigation: Authorities are looking into the circumstances surrounding the accident.

Bengaluru, April 16 (NationPress) - Prominent BJP figure and Karnataka Assembly's Leader of Opposition, R. Ashoka, along with various other notable leaders, has conveyed profound sorrow regarding the loss of eight pilgrims in a tragic road incident in Andhra Pradesh on Thursday.

R. Ashoka lamented the unfortunate event, stating, "Reports have surfaced about a heartbreaking road mishap that took place early today near Mantralayam in Andhra Pradesh, claiming the lives of eight devotees from the Chikkamagaluru district of Karnataka. They were en route to seek blessings at Mantralayam, and many others sustained injuries."

This occurrence has caused widespread distress, he added. "I extend my deepest sympathies to the families mourning this tragic loss and pray for the swift recovery of the injured," he expressed.

Ashoka urged the state government to swiftly offer adequate compensation to the bereaved families and ensure timely medical care for the injured.

"I pray that God grants eternal peace to the souls of the departed and provides strength to their families during this difficult time," Ashoka stated.

Former Chief Minister and BJP MP Basavaraj Bommai shared his sorrow, saying, "I am profoundly grieved to hear about the tragic accident that occurred near Mantralayam in Andhra Pradesh this morning, where eight devotees from the Chikkamagaluru district of Karnataka tragically lost their lives while on their pilgrimage, with several others injured."

"I offer my heartfelt condolences to the families affected by this unfortunate incident. I call upon the state government to provide immediate and sufficient compensation to the deceased's families and ensure the best possible medical assistance for the injured," he said.

"May the souls of the departed rest in peace. I hope their families find the strength to cope with this profound loss," he expressed.

In the early hours of Thursday, eight individuals from Karnataka met their demise and 12 others were injured when a vehicle transporting devotees collided with a ready-mix concrete truck near Chilakaladona village in the Yemmiganur mandal.

Approximately 20 individuals from the Chikkamagaluru district in Karnataka were traveling to the pilgrimage site, Sri Raghavendra Swamy Mutt, in Mantralayam.

Among the deceased, police reported that six were women, including a young girl. The injured have been transferred to local medical facilities.

Point of View

Particularly for those on pilgrimage. The reactions from political leaders reflect a collective mourning and a call for accountability in ensuring the safety of travelers.

NationPress

14 Jul 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

What happened in the Andhra Pradesh accident?

A tragic road accident occurred near Mantralayam, resulting in the deaths of eight pilgrims from Karnataka and injuries to several others.

Who expressed condolences regarding the accident?

Senior BJP leader R. Ashoka and former Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai both expressed their condolences and called for support for the victims' families.

What were the demands made by the leaders?

The leaders demanded immediate compensation for the families of the deceased and timely medical assistance for the injured.

How many people were involved in the accident?

Eight individuals lost their lives, and twelve others sustained injuries in the accident.

What actions are being taken for the injured?

The injured have been relocated to nearby hospitals for medical treatment.