Uttar Pradesh: School teacher beaten to death over parking dispute in Varanasi, all accused held
LUCKNOW: A senior teacher of a reputed public school was beaten to death with bricks and rods by three men over a petty issue of car parking in Kedar Colony of Varanasi late on Thursday evening. The accused, who happened to be the neighbours of the victim, were arrested. The teacher Dr Praveen Jha, 48, from Sunbeam School was called by the culprits over the phone asking him to move his car on late Thursday night. As he was about to do it, the accused started arguing with him. They first kicked and punched him before crushing his head with bricks. When the guard tried to save him, he was pushed away. As the teacher fell unconscious after the assault, the accused fled the scene. After this, the guard informed the teacher's wife about the incident. The family rushed the victim to BHU hospital where doctors declared him dead upon arrival. Doctors said the death was due to a severe head injury. The incident occurred on Thursday night at 10:30 pm in the Matru Chhaya Apartment located Kabirnagar locality under Bhelupur police station area. Upon receiving information about the incident, ACP Gaurav Kumar from Bhelupur reached the spot with the force. The police conducted raids at various places in search of the accused. At 3 am, the attackers were caught by the police. Bottles of alcohol and cigarette packets were recovered from the vehicle of the accused. As per the local sources, teacher Praveen Jha came to the apartment in a WagonR car at 10:30 pm. Parking the car in the parking lot in the basement, he went to his flat. A little later, Adarsh Singh, one of the accused, entered the apartment and started honking the horn. He punched and kicked teacher's car and called two more persons from outside. He called the teacher on the phone and asked him to come down and move the car. The teacher agreed as well. As the victim was moving his car, Adarsh Singh and his two accomplices started arguing with him and the dispute escalated leading all the three men to beat the teacher. Later, in a fit of rage, they picked up a brick and struck him relentlessly. Then they got a rod and hit the victim till the fell on the ground. When the guard tried to intervene, the accused pushed him away and left the scene. According to ACP Gaurav Kumar, all the accused have been arrested. The other two accused are residents of Chandauli. However, during the interrogation, Adarsh, the prime accused, claimed that he was under the influence of alcohol at the time of incident and didn't understand anything. Meanwhile, the local sources said that Adarsh had been living alone in flat number 202 of the apartment. His father, DR Singh, is a professor at the Agriculture University in Bihar. About 15 years ago, he had bought a flat in Matru Chhaya apartment which was being used by Adarsh for the last six months. The residents of the apartment said that Adarsh used to come in different vehicles and often picked up fight with residents. The sources said that there were 20 flats in Matru Chhaya Apartment with parking facility for 16 only. Praveen Jha had two houses on the third floor. His in-laws live in one, and he lived with his wife in the other flat. The victims elder son Aditya Jha works in a private company in Bengaluru while the younger one, Udit Jha, is pursuing MBA in Dehradun. The teacher bought both flats in 2012.
Ashish Yadav from BLW appointed as selector for Indian Railways under 23 cricket team
Ashish Yadav, Office Superintendent at Banaras Locomotive Works, has achieved a new milestone. Railway Sports Promotion Board, New Delhi, appointed him selector for the Indian Railways Under-23 cricket team. The selection camp is scheduled in Visakhapatnam. Yadav, a former Ranji Trophy player, expressed his commitment to providing opportunities and guidance to young talents.
UP: 13-year-old boy rapes 6-year-old in Sonbhadra; case registered
In the Robertsganj area of Sonbhadra district, a distressing incident occurred where a 6-year-old girl was allegedly lured away from her home and raped by a 13-year-old boy from the same neighborhood. Following a frantic search by the family, the girl was located and promptly admitted to the district hospital for medical treatment and care.
Researchers at IIT BHU Varanasi and Integral University Lucknow have discovered a new method for growing microalgae. This algae produces more oil, which can be used to make biofuel. The two-stage system involves growing algae in a closed tank and then shifting it to an open pond. This innovative approach increases oil content and supports clean energy goals.
Varanasi: ICAR-IIVR concludes Parthenium eradication drive, highlights health risks and crop losses
A week-long Parthenium eradication and awareness program concluded at ICAR-IIVR, Varanasi, highlighting the weed's harmful effects on crops, humans, and animals. The program emphasized community participation for effective management through biological control, manual uprooting, and safe disposal. Participants learned about alternative uses, control techniques, and preventive measures against Parthenium's spread.
In Bhadohi, police arrested three members of an inter-district gang. The operation involved multiple police stations and special teams. During the arrest, two suspects sustained bullet injuries. The arrested individuals face numerous charges across several districts. Police recovered illegal firearms from them. Forensic teams are investigating the scene. Legal actions are underway against the gang members.
UP Teacher Thrashed, Head Smashed With Bricks In Fight Over Parking
A 48-year-old school teacher in Uttar Pradesh's Varanasi was allegedly beaten to death by three persons following a dispute over a parking spot, police said on Friday.
Parking dispute turns fatal, teacher killed in Varanasi
VARANASI: A 48-year-old teacher working with a prominent private school here was allegedly beaten to death by three persons following a dispute over a parking spot, police said on Friday. The three accused have been arrested. Deputy Commissioner of Police (Crime) Saravanan T said the deceased Praveen Jha had an argument with one Adarsh Singh over parking on Thursday night. The dispute escalated, and Adarsh, along with two accomplices, attacked Praveen with bricks and a rod, the officer said. Praveen was critically injured in the attack. He was rushed to a hospital where he was pronounced dead by doctors. The deceased was a teacher at a prominent private school in Varanasi. A case has been registered based on the family's complaint.
Control room comes up in city after bird flu case confirmed in Rampur
Fake call centres duping people of crores busted, 29 arrested
Teacher booked for making kids dance to SP song at I-Day event
Fire brigade puts out blaze in 2-storey house
UPPCL OKs Rs824cr biz plan for PUVVNL to boost power supply
Builder shot by masked men in Sarnath
Pvt firm to ready GIS master plan for VDAs extended area
Man kills mom over land dispute in Azamgarh village
Clash after youth drowns in Jargo dam in Mirzapur
The Varanasi Development Authority has initiated a GIS-based master plan for its extended area, encompassing 215 new revenue villages and covering 278 square kilometers. Sai Consulting Engineers Pvt Ltd has been selected to complete the master plan within eight months.
Varanasi Development Authority will create a list of illegal colonizers. This action aims to stop unlawful land division in Varanasi. Authorities will focus on those who divide land without approval. The goal is to prevent deceitful sales to the public. This initiative will help protect buyers and the environment. Regular updates and reviews of the list are planned.
Bird flu in Rampur: Control room set up in Varanasi; poultry farmers advised to take precautions
Bird flu hits Rampur poultry farm, prompting Varanasi authorities to act. A control room is now active. The Animal Husbandry Department is inspecting farms and collecting samples. Farmers are urged to watch for bird deaths and symptoms. They should also maintain cleanliness and report any issues. Contact details are provided for immediate assistance and guidance.
BHU to host FISCPCON 2025; experts to discuss coloproctology, live workshop & fellowship exam
IMS BHU's General Surgery department will host FISCPCON 2025 on August 23-24, featuring national medical experts discussing coloproctology procedures. Dr. S.K. Bhartiya highlights presentations on haemorrhoids, fistulas, and rectal prolapse. The conference includes panel discussions, research presentations, a live operative workshop, and a fellowship examination under the ISCP. Prof.
UP govt to construct mini stadiums in all blocks of Varanasi; boost rural sports
To cultivate a new generation of athletes, the government is constructing mini stadiums with modern sports facilities in all eight blocks of Varanasi. Three stadiums are already benefiting athletes, offering facilities for various sports. Proposals have been submitted for the remaining five blocks, aiming to provide rural youth with opportunities to hone their talents and bring fame to the region.
VaranasiKolkata Expressway: Work underway in UP, Bihar & Jharkhand; DPR awaited in West Bengal
Construction of the Varanasi-Kolkata Expressway is underway in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Jharkhand, while West Bengal awaits its Detailed Project Report. Alignment revisions, including state government requests, were approved in October 2024. The project aims to boost connectivity, trade, tourism, and job opportunities, linking Bengal directly with Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.
Ward-wise sanitation inspection campaign in Kashi from Sept 1
Newly added to VMC, Ramnagar, Sujabad to get sewage, water supply
VDA allocates 82 houses under PM housing scheme
Villagers quiz man begging in sadhu attire
Woman leading drug racket arrested
City STP managing 400tn daily waste, turning it into coal
Kashi prepares action plan to boost dist GDP for UP $1 trn economy goal
BHU study finds genetic link to high TB rates in Sahariya Tribe
Varanasi prepares action plan to boost district GDP for one trillion dollar economy goal of UP
Varanasi is developing a concrete action plan to boost the district's GDP, aligning with Uttar Pradesh's ambitious goal of becoming a one trillion-dollar economy. District Magistrate Satyendra Kumar emphasized qualitative growth across primary, secondary, and tertiary sectors, focusing on agriculture, industry registration, and accurate data reporting.
First waste to charcoal plant operates in Varanasi with NTPC collaboration
Varanasi has established India's first waste-to-charcoal plant in collaboration with NTPC at the Ramna sewage treatment plant, processing 400 tons of city waste daily. District Magistrate Satyendra Kumar reviewed the plant's operations, waste disposal, and charcoal production. He instructed the executing agency to inform local residents about the plant's activities and display a waste processing flowchart.
Green Railway Revolution Begins In Varanasi With Indias First Solar Track Project
With 28 indigenously designed solar panels generating 15 kilowatt peak (KWp), the installation promises both innovation and efficiency without disrupting the movement of trains.
Bhojpuri actor Pawan Singh in trouble: Fraud case explained
A Varanasi court has ordered the police to register a case of fraud against Bhojpuri actor-singer Pawan Singh and three others.
Varanasi court orders FIR against Bhojpuri actor Pawan Singh, three others
The order was passed on August 13, 2025 by the court of the Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate-II after hearing an application filed by businessman Vishal Singh
Varanasi Court Mandates FIR Against Bhojpuri Actor Pawan Singh, 3 Others
Vishal Singh's counsel, Ashish Singh alleged that his client was duped in the name of investment in the 2018 film Boss.
A Varanasi court has instructed police to file a fraud case against Bhojpuri actor Pawan Singh. This follows a complaint by hotelier Vishal Singh. He alleges being cheated out of investments in the 2018 film 'Boss'. Vishal Singh claims he was promised profits but received nothing. He further alleges threats from Pawan Singh when demanding his dues.
Imambara built on municipal land, claims Varanasi civic body
No action after girls death by drowning in drain
Woman ends life in presence of her kids
Kshetra panchayat member missing after wifes murder
UPs 1st State Hotel Mgmt Instt to be ready in 2 months
Baaghi Ballia sattu sale begins at 100 post offices in Kashi rgn
2 boys accused of schoolmates murder sent to remand home
BLW installs countrys 1st removable solar panel sys between rly tracks
Mans body found in Gkp village, five held
Jaunpur woman consumes poison after giving it to 3 sons; 1 dead
Criminals photos to be displayed at police stations across Varanasi
Court hearing on plea to join Gyanvapi suit on Aug 20
BIS launches new course, student chapter at IIT-BHU
BJP Shakti Kendra coordinators house demolished, FIR lodged
Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, conducted a ventilator workshop. The two-day event saw participation from medical professionals. Experts shared knowledge on ventilator management for critical patients. Training included initial settings and weaning techniques. The workshop aimed to improve patient care. IMS plans to continue such educational programs. Key doctors like P.K. Das and Amrita Rath were involved.
Banaras Locomotive Works has achieved a milestone by installing India's first removable solar panel system between railway tracks. Inaugurated on Independence Day, this innovative project on Line No. 19 uses a special indigenous design for mounting panels without disrupting train traffic.
High rate of TB in Sahariya tribe linked to mitochondrial genetic factors
A genetic study by BHU researchers has uncovered a potential genetic link to the high tuberculosis (TB) rate among the Sahariya tribe in central India. The research identified two rare maternal haplogroups, N5 and X2, present in the Sahariya population but absent in neighboring groups.
IMS BHU hosts gynaecology ultrasound workshop focused on Adnexal Masses and Endometriosis
The Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, recently held a Gynaecology Ultrasound Workshop. The workshop focused on adnexal masses and endometriosis. Experts from gynaecology and radiology shared knowledge. Participants gained insights into advanced ultrasound techniques. The event featured lectures, discussions, and hands-on training. The workshop aimed to improve womens healthcare through enhanced diagnostic skills.
Gorakhpur has access to best of healthcare, med expense coverage: Yogi
CM Yogi leads Janmashtami rituals at Gorakhnath
Ghazipur gang running matrimonial fraud busted, 2 women held
Upset over sexual abuse, 14-year-old girl ends life
Man beheads father over property dispute
Flag hoisting, parades mark I-Day in city
Devotees get darshan of Laddu Gopal with Lord Vishweshwar at KVT on Janmashtami
Cargo vessel flags new chapter in VaranasiWB water transport
Private hostel owner booked for harassing Dalit girl, roommate
UP well-positioned to emerge asgreen hydrogen prodn hub: CM
4 Folk Singers Killed, 7 Injured in Road Accident in Shivpuri
The ill-fated bus, carrying 20 folk singers, was going to Gujarat from Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh
Enchanting music fills the evening!
A recent musical evening, Raag Rang, showcased the talents of both established and upcoming artists. Rahul Kumar Mishra impressed with his tabla performance, honoring the legacy of Pt Anoke Lal Mishra, while Divyansh Harshit Srivastava and Raag Yaman presented a captivating jugalbandi on santoor and flute.
Four killed, 11 injured as mini bus collides with small truck in MP's Shivpuri
SHIVPURI: Four persons were killed and 11 others injured after the mini bus they were travelling in collided with a small truck on a highway in Madhya Pradesh's Shivpuri district on Saturday, police said. The accident occurred around 5 am on National Highway 46, around 30 km from the district headquarters, when the mini bus carrying a Gujarat-based music troupe was returning from a programme at the Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi, Survaya police station house officer (SHO) Arvind Chari told PTI . He said the bus driver lost control of the wheel, entered the wrong lane and collided with a small truck. The deceased included Hardik Dave (37), a singer in the music troupe, Raja Thakur (28), Ankit Thakur (17) and Rajendra Solanki (47), all members of the band, the SHO said. He said the injured persons have been admitted to hospitals. A preliminary probe suggests that the driver of the mini bus with 17 people onboard might have dozed off at the wheel, Chari said, adding that further investigation is underway.
Conversion racket busted in Kashi: Man posed as Hindu, married 12 women across three states
LUCKNOW: A shocking case of identity fraud and religious conversion came to light in Varanasi on Wednesday, as Sarnath police arrested Sharaf Rizvi from Farrukhabad for posing as a Hindu man named Samrat Singh and allegedly marrying multiple Hindu women under false pretences. Rizvi was caught after a woman from Sarnath filed a complaint, accusing him of duping her into a relationship by promising marriage, extorting 5 lakh, and pressuring her to convert to Islam. The accused has since been remanded to judicial custody. According to Sarnath police, Rizvi admitted during interrogation that he had trapped at least 12 women across three states, including Uttar Pradesh, by creating fake identities on matrimonial websites. He targeted women, extracted money and gifts, and revealed his real identity only after securing physical relationships, often pressuring them to convert to Islam. Police sources said Rizvi used a calculated three-point strategy: he identified women on matrimonial platforms, presented himself as a wealthy Hindu businessman, and exploited them emotionally and financially. Once trust was gained, he would introduce the idea of conversion post-engagement or after physical intimacy. Rizvi reportedly maintained three Facebook accounts under different Hindu names, Samrat Singh , Ajay Kumar , and Vijay Kumar . He told police that his real account as Sharaf Rizvi barely gained attention online, while his Hindu aliases received instant responses, prompting him to double down on the impersonation. Through sites like Shaadi.com, Rizvi contacted over 100 women after purchasing a subscription, engaging with them and their families. He fabricated elaborate lies, claiming to be an exporter with properties in multiple cities. When asked to introduce his family via video call, he had friends pose as relatives. To further convince families, Rizvi rented luxury cars, wore expensive clothing, and portrayed a high-profile lifestyle. Once trust was secured, he would visit the women, establish physical relationships, and request money for wedding expenses. In several cases, he allegedly cut off contact after taking money. Police said he often ended relationships with fabricated conflicts and, when confronted, revealed his true identity and pressured the women to convert to Islam. In his confession, Rizvi admitted that at least 12 women had agreed to convert to marry him. His arrest followed the complaint of a woman in Sarnath who discovered his real identity after giving him 5 lakh for marriage preparations. Rizvi reportedly stayed at her flat, took her to hotels in Varanasi and Lucknow, and later issued threats when she demanded the money back. ACP Sarnath Vijay Pratap confirmed that Rizvi is part of a larger conversion and extortion racket. He has trapped around 1012 women so far. We are investigating his wider connections and possible links with an Islamic organisation. The probe is ongoing, said the ACP. Sources added that preliminary evidence suggests possible funding links to a radical outfit, although details remain undisclosed as investigations continue.
IMS-BHU uses Made-in-Indiatech to improve patient care
CM meets girl on whose request road to her school was repaired
BHU launches Har Ghar Tiranga drive with flag hoisting
4-yr-old raped by cousin, accused held
Man arrested for duping & forcing woman to convert
Special bus to aid Pitr Paksh rituals in Gaya
Mother Gets 10-Year-Old Son Killed By Lover After He Finds Out About Her Affair
A woman conspired with her lover to kill her 10-year-old son in Varanasi after he saw them in a compromising position.
In Varanasi, a former BHU department head allegedly orchestrated a revenge plot against his successor, Prof. Challa Sriramachandra Murthy, hiring a contract killer after losing his position due to a complaint. Murthy survived the attack with fractures, while the alleged mastermind, Budati Venkatesh Lu, is currently on the run.
2-yr-old girl among 5 killed in road crash in Jaunpur
Two wanted looters arrested after encounter in Mirzapur
CM Grid scheme reviewed, directions to expedite work
Womans lover kills her 10-year-old son in Varanasi, arrested
Advanced Postal Technology 2.0 to enhance services
Kashi women craft 4.76L national flags for I-Day
NEW DELHI: Hitting back at the BJP for claiming irregularities in seats contested by some top opposition leaders, the Congress on Wednesday said the data shared by the ruling party points to its collusion with the Election Commission (EC) and demanded that the 2024 Lok Sabha polls be considered ull and void for being held on fake voter lists. The opposition party also demanded the electronic voter list of Varanasi, from where Prime Minister Narendra Modi had won the electoral contest, so that people get to know whether he had truly won or not. The Congress's attack came after the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) claimed irregularities in voter registration in the Rae Bareli, Wayanad, Diamond Harbour and Kannauj parliamentary seats, and asked Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Abhishek Banerjee and Akhilesh Yadav to resign as Lok Sabha MPs, alleging that they secured their electoral triumphs with vote chori. Giving a slide-show presentation on the issue at the BJP headquarters here on an 'analysis' of electoral rolls in these constituencies represented by opposition leaders, former Union minister Anurag Thakur also flagged irregularities in the voter registration in Kolathur assembly seat in Tamil Nadu and in Mainpuri Lok Sabha seat in Uttar Pradesh. He asked Chief Minister and DMK supremo M K Stalin and SP leader Dimple Yadav to resign for igging election. Hitting back at Thakur, Congress's media and publicity department head Pawan Khera said, The numbers of five-six Lok Sabha constituencies that he (Thakur) has released ...it took us six months to collect for just one Vidhan Sabha. Where did he get the electronic voter list from? This shows how deeply aligned BJP leaders are with the EC. We also want to point out that what he has released today is evidence of a crime. We demand that this evidence be handed over to us within 24 hours so we can proceed with the investigation. We also want the electronic voter list of Varanasi, from where the prime minister won (the Lok Sabha election) by a very small margin, so that people can know whether he truly won or not, Khera told PTI Videos . The entire 2024 general election was conducted on such fake voter lists, the Congress leader alleged. Today, he (Thakur) has released the data for five-six Lok Sabha constituencies, whereas we had only released a list of 50 booths from one Vidhan Sabha. This proves, by his own action, that the election was held on a fake voter list. We demand that the Lok Sabha election be considered null and void, Khera said. Thakurslammed the Congress, Trinamool Congress, Samajwadi Party, and DMK leaders for raising questions on the Election Commission. He accused them of running a vicious propaganda against the special intensive revision (SIR) of the elector rolls, which is currently underway in Bihar and would be launched in other states. He claimed that the aim of the oppositions criticism was to protect their vote bank of illegal Bangladeshi infiltration and other intruders. Seeing this 'shor' (hue and cry) being made by the opposition, it now seems that 'chor machaye shor', the BJP leader said, suggesting that those who were in the wrong are now crying foul. Rae Bareli, Wayanad, Kannuaj to Diamond Harbour -- everywhere one question is coming up, why did they make fake voters? Will they resign for indulging in 'vote chori' and protecting intruders? Thakur asked. Dissolution of Lok Sabha first step towards genuine SIR: Abhishek Banerjee Trinamool Congress (TMC) general secretary Abhishek Banerjee on Wednesday said immediate dissolution of the Lok Sabha should be the first step towards conducting a genuine Special Intensive Revision (SIR). In a post on X, the TMC leader also said that the SIR should be implemented across the country and not selectively in the poll-bound states. The EC (Election Commission) has stated that the voter lists across various states on the basis of which the General Elections were held barely a year ago in 2024 are faulty and riddled with irregularities, Banerjee said. If that is indeed the case, and if the GoI (Government of India) agrees with the EC's assessment, then the first step towards conducting a genuine SIR and standing on moral high ground is the immediate dissolution of Lok Sabha, he said, and added, If one truly supports the idea of SIR, then as per the EC's own statement - the people of this country have been betrayed, he said. Banerjee said the Lok Sabha should be dissolved, the SIR should be conducted across the country, and general elections should be held. Aap chronology samajh lijiye (understand the chronology) - dissolve the House, conduct SIR across the country, go for elections and face the people, he said. The INDIA bloc parties have been protesting against the ongoing the SIR exercise in Bihar, calling it vote chori (vote theft), and an exercise which would lead to the disenfranchisement of many. The opposition parties have been pressing for a debate on the issue in Parliament. They also attempted a march to the EC office on Monday, but were stopped midway. The Congress on Wednesday announced that Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi, along with the INDIA bloc leaders in Bihar, will embark on a 'Vote Adhikar Yatra' across the state starting August 17.
Banaras Hindu University launches anti-ragging awareness campaign with zero tolerance message
Banaras Hindu University marked National Anti-Ragging Day. The university held awareness campaigns and workshops. The goal was to promote a safe campus environment. Students participated in slogan and essay writing. Anti-Ragging Week will feature various activities. These include poster making and debates. The Well-Being Services Cell also organized a workshop. The workshop focused on mutual respect and student safety.
Chief Postmaster General of Uttar Pradesh, Pranav Kumar, announced the rollout of Advanced Postal Technology 2.0 (APT 2.0) at Varanasi Cantt head post office. This initiative aims to modernize postal services, enhance transaction speed, and improve customer experience through digital integration and real-time tracking. Despite initial technical glitches, the system promises greater efficiency and transparency.
Commissioner reviews municipal corporation work under CM Grid Scheme in Varanasi
Divisional Commissioner S. Rajalingam reviewed Varanasi's Municipal Corporation's progress under the CM Grid Scheme, focusing on road improvement, drainage, and infrastructure. He directed inter-departmental coordination to expedite construction of six roads being developed with a Rs 47 crore budget. The scheme aims to modernize city roads with smart features, improve traffic, and promote economic growth.
Experts discuss transformations in Eastern Uttar Pradesh's agri-food system
IIT BHU is collaborating with national institutions to revolutionize Eastern Uttar Pradesh's agriculture. The initiative focuses on farmer-centric, technology-driven solutions, aiming to boost income through improved market access and reduced costs. A proposed agribusiness park will connect farmers, industry, and NGOs.
Bus collides head-on with truck in UP's Jaunpur, five dead, 15 injured
JAUNPUR: Five people, including a minor girl, died and 15 others got injured when a roadways bus collided head-on with a truck in Uttar Pradesh's Jaunpur, police said on Wednesday. The incident occurred at around 10.30 pm on Tuesday near Guraeni petrol pump in Khetasarai police station area, they said. The roadways bus coming from Jaunpur and the truck from Shahganj rammed into each other, killing a two-year-old girl, two women and two men, Superintendent of Police Dr Kaustubh said. According to police, the accident was caused due to the negligence of the bus driver, who swerved to the right and hit the truck. Devi Prasad (32) and Ratan Lal (60), Gehna Devi (59) from Pawai in Azamgarh district died in the road crash, the police said, adding that efforts are on to identify the remaining two deceased. Upon receiving information, police and administrative officials rushed to the spot and sent the injured to private and district hospitals, they said. Three of the 15 injured are in critical condition, with two undergoing treatment at the district hospital and one referred to Varanasi. District Magistrate Dr Dinesh Chandra and other officials visited the district hospital to meet the injured and gather details about the incident.