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28 people electrocuted in India

PATNA: At least 28 people were electrocuted and dozens of others injured when a high voltage cable fell on a Hindu religious procession in the eastern Indian state of Bihar, police said on Thursday.

Director General of Police K.A. Jacob said the tragedy had occured late on Wednesday in south Bihar's Palamu district, about 300 km (187.5 miles) from state capital Patna.

"The tragedy occurred last night claiming 28 lives. We are still awaiting details," Jacob said.

Police said the 11,000-volt overhead cable fell on a Ram Navami procession, in which hundreds of people were participating to mark the birth of Hindu God Rama.

The incident caused panic and a few people were injured in an ensuing stampede, they added.

The injured people were being treated at a local hospital in Daltonganj.-Reuters