Title: Tragedy Strikes as KSEB Neglect Leads to Teen’s Electrocution in Kozhikode
In a heartbreaking turn of events, the dreams of a promising young student, Mohammed Rijas Puthalath, were shattered due to the tragic apathy of Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) officials. The 19-year-old, who aspired to pursue a course in Artificial Intelligence (AI) from Bengaluru, was electrocuted just a night before he was set to embark on his new journey.
The unfortunate incident occurred on AWH-Kuttikkattoor road when Rijas was electrocuted from an iron pole in front of a local shop. Despite multiple complaints from shop owners and residents about the electrical shock emanating from the pole, the concerned KSEB officials failed to take any preventive action, leading to the devastating loss of a young life.
Rijas, described as a smart and loving individual with a passion for technology, had taken up a part-time job to fund his education in Bengaluru. His untimely death has left his family and community in mourning, with his cousin, Shamsudheen Puthalath, expressing deep sorrow over the irreplaceable loss.
The negligence of the KSEB, as highlighted by previous complaints from several individuals who also suffered electric shocks from the same pole, underscores a glaring failure in addressing public safety concerns. Despite repeated alerts to the authorities and a subsequent visit from a KSEB officer, the issue was not resolved, ultimately leading to the tragic demise of Rijas.
In the aftermath of the incident, an action committee formed to seek justice for the deceased teenager is calling for accountability and a thorough investigation into the circumstances that led to his death. The police have registered a case of unnatural death, but the committee is pressing for more stringent charges, adequate compensation, and necessary support for Rijas’ family.
As the community grapples with the loss of a promising young life, the demand for justice and accountability in the face of institutional negligence remains paramount. The tragic death of Mohammed Rijas Puthalath serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of apathy and underscores the need for stringent safety measures to prevent such incidents in the future.