Karnataka government announces Rs 5 lakh as ex-gratia to Arjun’s family; the remains are expected to reach Kozhikode tomorrow morning

Kozhikode/Shirur: The Karnataka government has announced an ex-gratia assistance of Rs 5 lakh to the family of Arjun, a native of Kozhikode, who was killed in a massive landslide in Ankola’s Shirur. Arjun’s mortal remains were found in the Gangavali river on Wednesday. A DNA test conducted in Karnataka confirmed that the body parts found belonged to the Kozhikode man. Arjun’s mortal remains were taken to his residence at Kozhikode’s Kannadikkal by an ambulance from Karwar Government Medical College Hospital. Manorama News reported that the Karnataka government bears the transportation costs.

Karwar MP Satish Krishna Sail also accompanies the mortal remains to Kozhikode. He will give the exgratia to Arjun’s mother. Paying tribute to Arjun, a group of truck drivers will join Pooladikunnu ambulance in Kozhikode.

According to reports, the mortal remains will arrive at Arjun’s residence at 8 am on Friday. His body will be kept in public view at his residence for one hour. The funeral will take place in the grounds of his home. Ministers including KP Mohammad Riyas and MP K Raghavan are expected to attend the funeral.

Manorama News reported that police would impose strict movement restrictions in Kannadikkal areas in connection with the mourning procession.

Arjun and eight others lost their lives in the massive landslide on National Highway 66 in Ankola, Karnataka on July 16. Arjun, who was resting inside his truck carrying timber to Kerala, was swept away towards the Gangavali river during the landslide. His mortal remains were found inside the truck cabin during search operations on September 25, the 72nd day of the landslide.