In a solemn recognition of supreme sacrifice in the line of duty, the Haryana Police has announced that Inspector Jagdish Prasad, who lost his life while rescuing trapped visitors during a swing collapse at the Surajkund International Crafts Mela, will be accorded ‘martyr’ status. The announcement was made by Director General of Police (DGP) Ajay Singhal, who visited the bereaved family to offer condolences.
The tragic incident occurred on the evening of February 7, when a giant “Tsunami” joyride malfunctioned and tilted dangerously, trapping nearly two dozen people. Inspector Prasad (58), who was the duty in-charge of the amusement area, immediately rushed to the base of the ride to help pull people to safety. During the rescue operation, the structure snapped and collapsed, crushing him. He sustained critical head injuries and was declared dead at a private hospital.
“Inspector Jagdish Prasad sacrificed his own life to save others. The department stands firmly with his family in this difficult time,” DGP Singhal stated. The government has announced a financial compensation of ₹1 crore for the family and a government job for one eligible family member. The officer, a resident of Mathura, was just one month away from retirement, scheduled for March 31, 2026.
Meanwhile, the Faridabad Police have arrested Mohammad Shakir, the proprietor of Himachal Fun Care Company, and his staff member Nitesh in connection with the accident. An FIR has been registered under Section 105 (culpable homicide not amounting to murder) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) at the Surajkund police station. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) headed by DCP (Crime) Mukesh Kumar has been constituted to probe the negligence that led to the mechanical failure.
Despite the tragedy, the district administration confirmed that the 39th Surajkund Mela will continue as per schedule, though the amusement ride section remains closed until the safety audit is completed.
