PUNALUR: In a tragic incident, a newly wed man and his brother-in-law drowned while taking a bath in the Kallada river. The deceased have been identified as Karunagappally native Althaf (23) and his brother-in-law Ansal (26). The two were part of an 11-member group of relatives returning from a pilgrimage to Ervadi masjid in Tamil Nadu.

The incident took place at around 8.45 am near the Thenmala Parappar dam. According to sources, the two were swept away by strong currents. Following this, they were rescued during a search conducted by locals and Thenmala police. The two died on the way to the hospital.

Ansal married Althaf's sister Alfia on the 18th of last month. Ansal, who works abroad, was due to return next week.