VIJAYAWADA: At least 20 people have died after a truck ran into a group of farmers gathered for a protest in Andhra Pradesh today.
Some of those killed were electrocuted, said a senior police official. Additional Superintendent of Police confirmed that 24 people were also injured in the accident that took place just 30 km from the temple town of Tirupati.
There are unconfirmed reports that the driver was drunk.
The speeding truck hit an electric pole before ramming into the farmers and others, some of whom had gathered to call for action against an alleged sand mafia operating in the region.
Tirupati Urban Superintendent of Police Vijayalaxmi said most of the casualties were because of electrocution. The injured victims include two policemen.
"Pained by the loss of lives due to an accident in AP's Chittoor district. Condolences to families of the deceased and prayers with the injured," Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted.
For exciting updates on national affairs and up-to-date news click here on India Brains
