Amaravati (Andhra Pradesh), Jul 9: A student from Andhra Pradesh G Sai Surya Avinash accidentally slipped into a waterfall and died in the US recently.

The Consulate General of India in New York said Avinash from Chitalya in East Godavari district, drowned on Saturday, July 7 at Barberville Falls in Albany, New York.

"We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of Mr. Sai Surya Avinash Gadde, a student at Trine University, who drowned on 7th July at Barberville Falls, Albany, NY," the Consulate said in a post on X on Tuesday.

Extending condolences to the deceased student's family and friends, the Consulate noted that it is extending all the necessary assistance to repatriate Avinash's mortal remains to India.

Meanwhile, a relative from Avinash's hometown Chityala, said he went to the US 18 months ago and was on the verge of completing the MS course.

"I am his (Avinash's) uncle and he went to the US 18 months ago. His MS course is getting over. He went to the waterfalls with his friends but accidentally fell into it," the relative told a vernacular news channel.

Terming Avinash's death as an irreparable loss to their family, he said that Telugu Association of North America (TANA) received his body, which could reach Chityala by Friday.

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Kolkata (PTI): Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar directed the authorities concerned to immediately arrest those involved in post-poll violence and vandalism in West Bengal, an official said on Wednesday.

The Election Commission's directive came after two persons were killed in alleged incidents of post-poll violence in the state on Tuesday, besides scores of party offices being ransacked.

The CEC issued instructions to the West Bengal chief secretary, director general of police, Kolkata police commissioner and directors general of central armed police forces, along with all district magistrates, superintendents of police and other officials, to maintain continuous patrolling in sensitive areas, he said.

"Those responsible for inciting violence and carrying out acts of vandalism must be arrested immediately," the official said, quoting the CEC's instruction.

The chief election commissioner also stressed the need for swift and firm enforcement of the law, he added.

This directive came amid concerns over law and order in parts of the state, with the Election Commission closely monitoring the situation, he added.

"We have been asked to remain on high alert and ensure that any attempt to disturb peace is dealt with firmly," a senior police officer said.

The state authorities have intensified vigil across districts, with coordinated efforts between the police and central forces to prevent any untoward incident, he added.

The assembly elections were held in West Bengal in two phases - April 23 and 29. The counting of votes took place on May 4.

The BJP sealed a landslide victory with 207 seats in the 294-member assembly, ending the TMC's uninterrupted 15-year rule in the state.