In a tragic incident in Madhya Pradesh's Jabalpur district, five women lost their lives after being struck by a speeding car on Sunday. The accident occurred near Ekta Chowk, in front of Sigma Colony, under the Barela police station limits. The women, who were laborers hired for installing road divider railings, were taking a lunch break when the vehicle hit them.

Two of the women, Bharti Chainwati, 35, and Lachho Bai, 38, died on the spot. The remaining injured were rushed to Jabalpur Medical College for treatment. However, Gomti Bai, 40, Varsha Bai, 39, and Krishna Bai, 41, succumbed to their injuries on Monday. Eight other individuals are currently receiving treatment, with two reported to be in critical condition. All the victims were residents of the Mandla district.

The hit-and-run incident sparked outrage among villagers, who protested by placing the bodies of the deceased on the Jabalpur-Mandla Road, causing significant traffic disruption. Led by local Congress leaders, the protestors demanded a government job and compensation of ₹25 lakh each for the families of the deceased. The protest was withdrawn after six hours when the administration assured a compensation of ₹10 lakh each to the victims' families. Additionally, ₹2 lakh will be given to those seriously injured and ₹1 lakh to those with minor injuries.

Police have detained the car owner, Deepak Soni, a resident of Ponda village in Sihora. His brother, Lakhan Soni, who was allegedly driving the vehicle, is currently absconding. Authorities have seized the vehicle and have assured that arrests will be made soon, with legal action to follow. Police are currently investigating the matter.

The accident has raised concerns about road safety and alleged negligence in safety standards by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI).