The Maharashtra Bhushan award ceremony, which took place on Sunday, witnessed the tragic death of eleven individuals due to heat stroke. The event held at Navi Mumbai saw a gathering of thousands of social activist Appasaheb Dharmadhikari’s followers.

Home Minister Amit Shah presented the Maharashtra government’s award to Dharmadhikari, and the day temperature was recorded at a maximum of 38 degrees Celsius. The seating arrangement for the audience lacked any shade, leading to several people suffering heat-related health issues. Around 50 people were admitted to the hospital, and Chief Minister Eknath Shinde visited the hospital to take stock of the situation. Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis confirmed that those who died sat in the open.

CM Shinde announced a compensation of ₹5 lahks to the families of those who lost their loved ones, while Mr. Fadnavis tweeted that the government would pay for the treatment of those who suffered heat-related illness. 

Deputy CM Fadnavis expressed his condolences over the tragic incident and tweeted in Marathi: 
“It is very unfortunate and painful that some members participating in the Maharashtra Bhushan award ceremony this morning died due to heatstroke… We share the grief of their families,” 

The incident at the Maharashtra Bhushan award event also serves as a reminder of the severe impact of climate change. The rise in temperatures due to global warming is a pressing issue that requires immediate attention. It is crucial to take steps to mitigate the effects of climate change and work towards a sustainable future to avoid such tragedies in the future.