Rewa, May 24 (IANS) The Jain community across India has expressed deep grief and outrage following the tragic road accident in Rewa, Madhya Pradesh, that claimed the lives of two Jain Sadhvis and left a third critically injured.

Enraged by the incident, the community has announced a series of peaceful demonstrations to demand justice and better safety measures for Jain ascetics on May 25.

The heartbreaking accident occurred on the morning of May 20 near the Collectorate in Rewa’s Civil Lines area. Three Jain Sadhvis, who were on a religious foot journey (padvihar), were walking when a speeding car allegedly mowed them down.

Shrutmati Mata, a native of Sagar district and disciple of Acharya Shri Vidyasagar Ji Maharaj, died on the spot. The other two Sadhvis, identified as Upsamiti Mata from Tamil Nadu and Arika Mata from Jabalpur, sustained critical injuries and were rushed to the hospital, with one placed on ventilator support while the other succumbed to injuries.

The driver, identified as Rashid Ali Shah, fled the scene along with his family but was later intercepted by police near Jabalpur after a high-speed chase covering nearly 270 kilometres.

Video footage that has surfaced on various media platforms clearly shows the car swerving from the centre of the road and moving directly towards the Sadhvis, who were walking along the edge of the road.

A case has been registered against him under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for rash and negligent driving and hit-and-run.

Police have confirmed that the vehicle was returning from Balrampur, Uttar Pradesh, to Nagpur in Maharashtra. The incident has sent shockwaves through the Jain community, which views the Sadhvis with immense reverence.

Many members have raised suspicions about whether the accident was truly unintentional, with some demanding a thorough investigation to rule out any conspiracy. In response, Jain organisations have called for peaceful protests and marches on May 25 across major cities, including Bhopal, Indore, Delhi, Ahmedabad, Mumbai, and other places.

Community leaders have appealed for calm while stressing the need for accountability and enhanced security for Jain monks and nuns who travel barefoot as part of their religious practices.

Senior Jain monks, including Muni Shri Praman Sagar Ji, have issued messages urging the community to maintain patience, faith, and restraint during this difficult time.

Rajya Sabha member Naveen Jain also expressed condolences and solidarity with the grieving community.

The Madhya Pradesh government has assured strict action against the accused.

The tragedy has once again highlighted the vulnerability of Jain ascetics on public roads and the growing concern over road safety in the state.

As preparations for the demonstrations gain momentum, the entire Jain community stands united in seeking justice for the departed souls and protection for their religious leaders. The peaceful protests are expected to draw significant participation, reflecting the community’s collective anguish and resolve.

–IANS

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