7 killed as toxic gas leaks in carpet factory in India

NEW DELHI - At least seven people were killed Thursday after inhaling toxic gas which leaked from inside a carpet factory in northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, officials said.

The incident took place at Jalalpur village in Sitapur district, about 75 km north of Lucknow, the capital city of Uttar Pradesh.

"Today seven people were killed inside a small carpet factory after inhaling toxic gas which leaked inside it," an official at the district magistrate office Sitapur said.

Police have rushed to the spot to take out bodies and investigate the incident.

Reports said the deceased included two women and three children.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has expressed grief over the deaths in the incident and offered condolences to the bereaved families.

"The chief minister has instructed the officers of the district administration to reach the spot immediately and provide all possible relief to the affected people," an official said. "He has also ordered strict action against the culprits responsible for the accident."