UDHAMPUR, April 22 -- Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday blamed negligence for the fatal road accident in Udhampur, saying preliminary findings point to lapses on the part of the bus operator, and assured that strict action will be taken once the inquiry report is submitted.

At least 21 people were killed and 51 others injured when an overcrowded passenger bus plunged nearly 100 metres down a hillside in Ramnagar area of Udhampur district on April 20.

Accompanied by Health Minister Sakeena Itoo, Abdullah visited Government Medical College (GMC) hospital Udhampur, where he met those injured in the road accident.

He interacted with their families, and directed officials to ensure the best possible medical care wi...