A tragic workplace accident in Punjab’s Patiala district has left an entire village in mourning after a lineman died of electrocution while on duty, followed by his mother’s death from a heart attack hours later. The incident has triggered outrage over alleged safety lapses and renewed calls for stricter protection of utility workers.
Electrocution during repair work near Nabha
The deceased lineman has been identified as Sanjeev Kumar, a resident of Bhore village near Nabha. According to police, Sanjeev was repairing a power supply line in Babarpur on Monday when he suffered a massive electric shock.
Eyewitnesses alleged that the electricity supply was restored without warning while Sanjeev was still working on the pole, throwing him down due to the force of the shock. He was rushed to a nearby hospital but was declared dead on arrival.
Relatives and villagers alleged that the repair was being carried out without proper safety clearance, a claim now under investigation.
Mother dies after hearing son’s death
The tragedy deepened within hours when Sanjeev’s mother, Shimlo Devi, collapsed at their home after being informed of her son’s death. Family members said she suffered a massive heart attack triggered by the shock and grief and died moments later.
Two deaths in a single day have left Bhore village devastated, with residents describing the incident as a “double blow” to the family and the community.
Safety lapses alleged, police case registered
Angry relatives and villagers accused the power department of gross negligence, claiming mandatory safety protocols were ignored. Preliminary police findings suggest the repair work may have been conducted without a valid permit or a formal shutdown clearance.
Based on a formal complaint, police have registered a case against junior engineer Harpreet Singh. Investigators are now trying to establish who authorised the restoration of power and whether criminal negligence was involved.
Department orders inquiry, assures compensation
Responding to the incident, Nabha executive engineer P Bhanot expressed condolences to the bereaved family and announced a high-level departmental inquiry.
“We are investigating whether the required permit was issued before the work commenced,” Bhanot said, assuring villagers that the family would receive due compensation and assistance as per state norms for on-duty fatalities.
Renewed calls for worker safety
The incident has reignited debate over the safety of electricity utility workers in Punjab. Labour activists and worker unions have demanded strict enforcement of permit-to-work systems and accountability to prevent similar tragedies.
Villagers said justice for Sanjeev Kumar and his family would depend on whether those responsible for the lapse are held accountable.