Faridabad: Inspector Jagdish Prasad, who lost his life while carrying out rescue operations after a swing malfunction at the Surajkund International Crafts Festival, will be honoured with martyr status, officials confirmed on Sunday. The decision comes as a mark of recognition for his actions in prioritising public safety despite grave personal risk.
The incident took place around 6 pm on Saturday at the 39th edition of the Surajkund fair, when an amusement swing reportedly collapsed due to a technical fault. Several visitors were injured in the accident. Inspector Prasad, who was deployed at the venue, was among the first responders and took charge of evacuating those trapped and injured. During the rescue effort, he sustained critical injuries and later died while undergoing treatment.
Director General of Police Ajay Singhal, who visited the hospital following the incident, announced financial assistance of ₹1 crore to the bereaved family along with a government job for one eligible member. He described the inspector’s death as a supreme act of duty, stating that Prasad laid down his life to protect others.
The Haryana district administration said the cultural fair would continue as scheduled, but all amusement rides have been shut down until further notice. The area where the swing collapsed has been sealed for investigation.
Tourism Minister Dr Arvind Sharma said the injured were out of danger and confirmed that a senior police officer had died in the line of duty. A probe committee led by the Additional Deputy Commissioner has been formed, and a case has been registered against the operator of the swing.
Inspector Prasad, originally from Dengra village in Mathura district, joined the police service as a sub-inspector in 1988 and was later awarded a police medal for meritorious service. He is survived by his wife Sudha Sharma, daughters Nidhi and Deepti, and son Gaurav. The family resides at the Sonipat Police Lines.
His brother Pradeep said the news reached the family later in the evening. “He was honoured with a police medal in 2019–20. The entire village is in shock,” he said.
The accident has once again drawn attention to safety concerns at the Surajkund fair. This is the third reported incident involving amusement rides at the venue over the years. Despite guidelines mandating strict checks and daily inspections, lapses have continued to surface. Authorities have warned that those found responsible after the inquiry will face strict legal action.
