Tanker runs over Ganesha idol procession near Hassan killing 8

Hassan: Eight people were killed instantly and more than 25 others sustained injuries when a speeding tanker rammed into a Ganesha idol procession at Mosalehosahalli village in Hassan taluk on Friday night.

Police said the tanker, which was travelling from Hassan towards Mysuru, swerved after the driver reportedly tried to avoid a motorcyclist. Losing control, the vehicle crossed the road divider and ploughed into the crowd. The injured were rushed to the HIMS hospital in Hassan.

Villagers recounted that the idol procession had begun around 8 p.m. from the pandal and reached National Highway 373 near Belur-Bilikere by 8:30 p.m., where the accident occurred.

Authorities indicated that the tanker driver had allegedly consumed alcohol and fled the scene after the crash. Holenarasipur MLA H.D. Revanna, who arrived soon after, instructed police to ensure the injured were taken to the hospital, TNIE reported.

He criticised the police for lapses and urged the state government to order a probe. He also pressed for compensation of ₹10 lakh each for the families of the deceased.

Deputy Commissioner K.S. Latha Kumari later visited the site. MLC Suraj Revanna alleged that there had been negligence on the part of the police, pointing out that no personnel were deployed despite the presence of more than 4,000 people at the event.

Hassan MP Shreyas Patel also went to HIMS hospital to meet the injured.