Raipur: A speeding SUV collided with Chhattisgarh Forest Minister Kedar Kashyap’s convoy near Junwani near the Jagdalpur-Kondagaon border on Sunday, leaving at least six people, including four policemen, injured, officials said. 

However, the minister remained safe and did not suffer any serious injuries.

A woman personal assistant of the minister also received injuries, while the four police personnel, who were critically injured, have been referred to Raipur for advanced medical treatment.

According to police officials, the minister’s convoy was travelling from Farsaguda to Kondagaon when a “Scorpio coming from the opposite direction” suddenly rammed into the minister’s car.

The Scorpio then lost control and smashed into the following vehicle.

The impact was severe, causing significant damage to the follow vehicle and creating panic at the scene.

The minister wrote on his X handle: "Today on the Jagdalpur–Kondagaon route near Bhanpuri, our follow vehicle met with an accident, resulting in the jawans aboard sustaining injuries. The injured jawans were immediately rushed to the hospital, where I enquired about their health and directed the doctors to ensure appropriate and better treatment".

Four police personnel deployed in the follow vehicle were injured in the collision. Upon receiving information, police and administrative teams rushed to the spot. The injured were immediately shifted to Kondagaon District Hospital for treatment.

According to preliminary reports, all the injured personnel are undergoing medical care.

Some reports indicated that four of the injured were in serious condition and were later referred to Raipur for advanced treatment.

The minister’s personal assistant and driver also sustained injuries in some accounts.

It is a matter of relief that despite the force of the impact, there were no fatalities. Both the minister’s vehicle and the follow vehicle sustained damage in the accident.

Police have launched an investigation into the cause of the incident. Officials are examining the circumstances, including the role of speed, and questioning the Scorpio driver. Teams are gathering evidence to determine how the collision occurred on the busy stretch near Junwani. Authorities continue to monitor the condition of the injured police personnel. Further details on the investigation and the health status of those hurt are awaited.