In 2023, India witnessed several significant events that shook the nation, causing immense loss and tragedy. Whether it was the train accident in Balasore, the caste violence between the Meitei and Kuki communities in Manipur, the gruesome incident in Indore's blood bank, or the public killing of gangster Atik Ahmad during a police custody, these events left a profound impact on the country. Here are the details of the top 10 events that unfolded in 2023:
Manipur: Caste Violence between Meitei and Kuki Communities
In Manipur, prolonged caste-based violence erupted between the Meitei and Kuki communities, resulting in over 150 casualties. The violence, including arson and vandalism, persisted for an extended period, leading to a shutdown of the internet. The nation was shocked when a Meitei community woman's nude parade during the violence became a symbol of shame.
Balasore Train Accident: 293 Casualties
On June 2, 2013, a catastrophic collision occurred near the Balasore Bazar railway station between the Coromandel Express and another train. The accident claimed the lives of 293 people, with over 1,200 individuals sustaining injuries. Following the investigation, railway negligence was cited, leading to the suspension of seven railway employees, including three arrests by the CBI.
Natural Disasters in Himachal and Sikkim
Heavy rainfall in August wreaked havoc in Himachal Pradesh, causing devastation in Shimla, Solan, Hamirpur, Mandi, Kangra, and Sirmaur. The natural calamity resulted in over 335 deaths, displacement of more than 2,000 people to safer locations, and extensive damage to infrastructure, leading to a loss of over ₹8,014 crore. Similarly, in Sikkim, cloudbursts and floods caused the death of 56 individuals.
Uttarkashi Tunnel Tragedy: 41 Workers Trapped
On November 12, 2023, a group of laborers working in a tunnel in Uttarkashi faced a massive landslide. A section of the under-construction tunnel collapsed, trapping 41 workers inside. After intense rescue operations spanning 17 days, all the workers were successfully rescued.
Indore Blood Bank Tragedy: 35 Fatalities
During the Ram Navami festival in Indore, a major mishap occurred at the Shri Beleshwar Mahadev Jhulelal Temple in Patel Nagar. The roof of the temple's tank collapsed, causing more than 50 people to fall into the tank. The incident resulted in 36 fatalities, and a large-scale rescue operation was conducted by the army, NDRF, and Indore Municipal Corporation.
Cyclones Biparjoy and Michong: Widespread Devastation
In December, Tamil Nadu experienced severe flooding due to a cyclone, causing over 15 deaths and extensive damage to homes, roads, and buildings. Similarly, Cyclone Biparjoy wreaked havoc in Gujarat, claiming more than 10 lives. The combined impact of these cyclones led to significant economic losses and raised concerns about the nation's preparedness for such natural disasters.
Doda Bus Accident: 39 Fatalities
On November 15, 2023, a tragic bus accident occurred in the Doda district of Jammu and Kashmir. A bus carrying passengers from Kishtwar to Jammu fell into a 300-foot gorge, resulting in 39 deaths and severe injuries to over 15 individuals. A three-member committee was formed to investigate the incident.
Israel-Hamas Conflict: Operation Ajay and Evacuation
The Israel-Hamas conflict, known as Operation Ajay, led to the evacuation of more than 200 Indians from Israel. The conflict, marked by retaliatory attacks between Israel and Hamas, resulted in over 15,000 casualties. The situation remains tense as the conflict continues.
Punjab: Resurgence of Khalistan Movement
In 2023, the term "Khalistan" regained prominence as Amritpal Singh, the leader of the "Waris Punjab De" group and a fervent supporter of Khalistan, created unrest in Punjab. Amritpal, along with thousands of supporters, clashed with the police, leading to violence and injuries.
Atik Ahmad's Public Killing in Police Custody
On April 15, 2023, former Member of Parliament and notorious gangster Atik Ahmad, along with his brother Ashraf, was brutally killed during a gunfire incident in Prayagraj. The assailants, identified as Lavelesh Tiwari, Arun Maurya, and Sunny Singh, were promptly arrested. However, the motive behind the killing remains undisclosed.
These events of 2023 left an indelible mark on India, prompting reflections on safety measures, disaster preparedness, and the need for swift justice in the face of criminal activities.
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