Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala Minister for the Welfare of SC, ST and Backward Classes, O R Kelu, has ordered a departmental inquiry into the death of two tribal children who were killed when the sunshade of an under-construction house collapsed on them in Palakkad. The minister said strict action would be taken against officials if any lapse on their part was found to have caused the tragedy.

The victims, Aadi (7) and Ajnesh (4), were siblings from the Karuvara tribal settlement. They died after the structure gave way while they were playing near the house.

Their mother later alleged that the absence of a vehicle to take them to the hospital immediately after the accident may have cost at least one of the children’s lives.

Reacting to the incident, Kelu said several accounts were emerging regarding the circumstances of the tragedy.

"There is an allegation that the officials of the Integrated Tribal Development Project (ITDP) in Attappadi had not paid much attention to the construction of the house," Kelu told the media.

He also acknowledged that another claim had surfaced regarding the delay in arranging a vehicle for hospital transport.

"A report has been sought in this regard from the ITDP official in Attappadi. We will get a clear picture about what had happened as we receive the report," he said. The minister further stated that if the inquiry confirms any negligence, strict departmental measures will follow.
(With PTI Inputs)