Daijiworld Media Network - Lucknow

Lucknow, Jul 20: A controversy has erupted after Uttar Pradesh minister Kapil Dev Agarwal linked a fatal house collapse in Muzaffarnagar to population growth while visiting the family of the victims, drawing criticism over the timing and nature of his remarks.

The incident occurred on Sunday when a mud house collapsed following heavy rainfall, killing a 52-year-old man and four of his children.

The deceased were identified as Islamuddin and his children—eight-month-old Zeeshan, two-year-old Ahad, five-year-old Alshifa and 12-year-old Rukhsar.

Two other children from the family sustained serious injuries and are undergoing treatment at a hospital.

While visiting the injured and meeting the bereaved family, Agarwal told reporters, "The population is increasing. People get permanent houses, and then another new family is formed. Now they have nine children, so the government also has its limitations."

His remarks triggered a political controversy, with critics describing them as insensitive in the wake of the tragedy.

Responding to the criticism, the minister said the government remained committed to providing permanent housing to all eligible beneficiaries and described the objective as one of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's key priorities.

He also expressed sympathy for the bereaved family and said the government stood firmly with them during the difficult time.

According to officials, the family was having a meal inside the house when the structure suddenly collapsed due to incessant rainfall.

The bodies have been sent for post-mortem examination, while authorities are continuing further investigation into the incident.