Couple killed in lightning strike

A couple died when they were struck by lightning in Katihar district of Bihar today.
The couple, identified as Indradev Mahto (45) and his wife Pramila Devi (35), were shifting sacks of maize to a safer place in their thatched house during rains when the lightning struck them, Circle Officer Omprakash Gupta said.
An immediate assistance of Rs 3,000 was given to the family for the cremation of the couple, who used to reside at Gunjra village under Barari police station limits.
An ex-gratia, as stipulated under the rules, will also be given to the next of kin of the victims, the CO said.

The couple is survived by three minor children.