Bengaluru, 26 Dec

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has requested details regarding the helium gas cylinder explosion that occurred on Thursday evening outside the Mysuru Palace. However, district in-charge minister HC Mahadevappa said that the incident was routine, stating that there is no evidence of foul play. After meeting with the injured and their families, he confirmed that state police would cooperate with the NIA who investigate such incidents in the national interest.

“The balloon seller, Salim from Uttar Pradesh, was in the city like other street vendors, selling balloons near the Mysuru Palace gates. He lived in a rented house in Mandi Mohalla for the past 15 days and is an innocent man,” Mahadevappa stated. He assured that the government would provide free treatment for all injured parties, emphasising, “As Mysuru is a tourist spot, I have instructed police to implement extra precaution and security measures.”

Salim died at the scene on Thursday night while filling balloons, and Manjula, aged 40, succumbed to her injuries on Friday despite medical efforts. A total of five individuals, including three women, were injured and are currently receiving treatment at KR Hospital.