Outcry as 10-Year-Old Girl Electrocuted in Apartment Complex Pool in Bengaluru

Bengaluru, December 30, 2023 – A 10-year-old girl, Manya Damerla, was found lifeless in the swimming pool of Prestige Lakeside Habitat, an upscale apartment complex situated off the Varthur-Gunjur road in Bengaluru, on Thursday night around 8 pm.

Manya, who lived with her family at the apartment complex, had been playing outside near the pool area when the tragic incident occurred, according to police reports. She was discovered in the water and immediately rushed to a nearby private hospital where doctors declared her dead on arrival.

The shocking news has left residents of the apartment complex shaken, with Manya’s father Rakesh alleging that her death was caused by electrocution, not drowning. According to Rakesh, “Some people said she was electrocuted as she was experiencing seizures. A few people tried to remove her from the water, but couldn’t.”

Residents have expressed anger, stating that multiple complaints of electric shocks on the premises had been raised since May, but no action was taken by Prestige Property Management and Services (PPMS), the entity managing the apartments.

“My husband had highlighted the same when my 15-month-old daughter got a shock while playing in the kids’ area! But there was no response from PPMS. It’s unfortunate a child lost her life due to such negligence,” said Preeti Kumari, a resident.

However, police have stated that as per initial investigation, Manya accidentally fell into the pool and drowned. “We are awaiting the post-mortem report to ascertain the exact cause of death,” said DCP Whitefield Shivakumar Gunare. Reports from electrical engineers and histopathology tests have also been requested.

A case of unnatural death has been registered by Varthur police. The apartment complex management and electricity board are being questioned. This tragic incident has highlighted concerns over safety standards and negligence in maintaining amenities at residential complexes. Authorities have assured that a thorough investigation will be conducted.