CM Revanth Reddy Hands Over ₹2.23 Crore Compensation to Madina Bus Tragedy Victims; Minister Mohammad Azharuddin Led Relief Efforts

Hyderabad: In a significant humanitarian gesture, A. Revanth Reddy, Chief Minister of Telangana, distributed compensation cheques to the families of the victims of the tragic Madina bus accident that claimed 44 lives. The compensation was handed over at the Secretariat in the presence of senior officials and public representatives.

The accident occurred on November 17, 2025, near Madina in Saudi Arabia, where 44 Umrah pilgrims from Hyderabad lost their lives after a devastating bus fire. Of the 45 passengers on board, only one person survived. Among the deceased were 16 men and 28 women, including ten children, making the tragedy even more heart-wrenching.

The Telangana Government announced ₹5 lakh each to the families of the deceased and ₹3 lakh to the seriously injured survivor, totaling ₹2.23 crore in compensation. The Chief Minister personally handed over the cheques to the affected families, assuring them of the government’s unwavering support.

Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister said that immediately after receiving news of the tragedy, the State Government initiated swift action. Control rooms were established at the Telangana Haj Committee, the Telangana Secretariat (GAD), and the Indian Consulate in Jeddah to coordinate relief measures.

Highlighting the proactive response, the Chief Minister noted that Mohammad Azharuddin, Telangana’s Minorities Welfare Minister, was promptly deputed to Madina to oversee arrangements. Minister Azharuddin coordinated with Saudi authorities and ensured that the last rites of the deceased were conducted smoothly at Jannatul Baqi graveyard in accordance with Islamic traditions. Emergency visas, flight tickets, and accommodation were arranged for family members to attend the funerals.

“Generally, governments do not provide compensation for incidents that occur outside the country. However, considering the plight of the affected families, we decided to extend financial assistance,” the Chief Minister stated. He emphasized that the government stands firmly with its people during times of hardship and tragedy.

Reaffirming his commitment to minority welfare, the Chief Minister also mentioned that since 2009, he has been facilitating Haj opportunities for selected individuals from Kodangal every year.

Senior leaders and officials present at the event lauded the government’s swift and compassionate response. The move has been widely appreciated as a reflection of the administration’s commitment to providing both financial and moral support to its citizens during times of crisis.

The Chief Minister concluded by urging unity and solidarity, particularly during the holy month observed by the Muslim community, assuring that the government would continue to stand by its people in both sorrow and happiness.