VIJAYAWADA: Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan’s younger son, Mark Shankar, aged eight years, sustained injuries in a fire accident at a summer camp in Singapore.
The incident reportedly occurred when a fire broke out on the campus, causing injuries to his hands and legs. He also suffered smoke inhalation and was immediately rushed to a hospital where he is currently undergoing treatment.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to the Indian High Commissioner in Singapore and directed him to extend full support to Pawan Kalyan’s family and closely monitor the condition of his son.
Pawan Kalyan while speaking to mediapersons in Hyderabad on Tuesday evening about the incident, confirmed that his son is safe but sustained burn injuries to his hands and legs and suffered severe smoke inhalation.
Deputy CM continues tour despite son’s accident
He expressed concern that the smoke exposure could have long-term effects on Mark’s health. He also informed that Mark’s classmates suffered third degree burns.
The tragic fire occurred during a summer camp attended by around 30 children, including Mark. Pawan Kalyan was in the tribal region of Alluri Sitarama Raju district, participating in the government programme ‘Adavi Talli Baata’, when he received a call from his wife Anna at around 8:30 am.
Initially believing it to be a minor incident, he later realised the gravity of the situation. He was informed that one child had lost their life in the accident, and all the children, including Mark, had been hospitalised. His son is currently under general anaesthesia and undergoing a bronchoscopy procedure.
He emotionally noted that the accident coincided with his elder son Akira’s birthday, making it an especially difficult day for the family. Pawan Kalyan expressed his gratitude to PM Modi for extending support through the Indian High Commission in Singapore. He received a call from the PMO, where the Prime Minister assured him of any assistance required.
He also thanked Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu, Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy, opposition leaders Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy and KT Rama Rao, Tamil Nadu BJP President K Annamalai, State BJP chief Purandeswari, Union Ministers Ram Mohan Naidu, Kishan Reddy, Bandi Sanjay, Deputy Speaker Raghurama Krishna Raju, Ministers Nara Lokesh, Nadendla Manohar, Kandula Durgesh, and others from party, film industry and co artists who reached out to express their concern.
Several officials and party leaders urged Pawan Kalyan to halt the tour and fly to Singapore. However, the Deputy Chief Minister stated that he had already committed to visiting Kuridi village near Araku to interact with tribal residents and understand their concerns. He affirmed that he would complete his scheduled programmes before departing for Singapore.