Haridwar, July 31 -- At least four Kanwariyas from Chandigarh drowned while bathing in a prohibited stretch of the Ganga River in Haridwar on Friday, police said.

According to the police, the deceased were part of a group of around 16-17 Kanwariyas. Four members of the group allegedly ventured into a restricted stretch of the river instead of using the designated bathing ghats and drowned after getting trapped in deep, slushy waters.

Haridwar Superintendent of Police (City) Abhay Pratap Singh said the police have initiated all necessary legal formalities, including inquest proceedings and post-mortem examinations.

Speaking to ANI, SP Singh said, "A very tragic incident occurred today. Some Kanwariyas entered the river in a restricted a...