At least 116 people, including women and children, died in a stampede during a ‘satsang’ in Hathras, Uttar Pradesh, on Tuesday. The state administration has begun a probe and assigned three ministers to oversee rescue efforts.
Inspector General (Aligarh) Shalabh Mathur confirmed the grim toll. “An FIR will be lodged against the satsang organizers due to the crowd exceeding permitted limits. A high-level enquiry has been initiated,” he stated.
Details of the Event and Tragedy
The satsang was organized by the Manav Mangal Milan Sadbhavna Samagam Committee for the self-styled godman Narayan Sakar Hari, also known as Sakar Vishwa Hari or Bhole Baba. Eyewitnesses reported that devotees suffocated in the stampede, resulting in one of the most devastating tragedies in recent years. The victims were rushed to the Sikandara Rao Trauma Centre and the government hospital in Etah.
Heartbreaking Scenes Unfold
Videos from the scene showed victims, both deceased and unconscious, being transported to the Sikandara Rao Trauma Centre in ambulances, trucks, and cars. Heart-rending scenes emerged as many injured individuals lay near the hospital entrance, surrounded by anxious relatives.
Cause of the Stampede
According to Sikandra Rao sub-divisional magistrate Ravendra Kumar, the stampede happened when followers rushed forward to get a picture of Bhole Baba, who was leading the satsang. They also wanted to gather dirt from the area surrounding the baba’s feet, which is what caused the unfortunate and disorderly event.
Government Response
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath expressed deep sorrow over the incident, describing it as “extremely sad and heart-wrenching.” He detailed that the tragedy unfolded when devotees rushed towards the preacher at the end of the satsang, and when sevadars (volunteers) tried to stop them, the stampede occurred.
To address the situation, a team led by Additional DG Agra has been formed to provide a detailed report. The Chief Secretary and DGP are currently on-site, along with three state ministers: Chaudhary Laxmi Narayan, Sandeep Singh, and Asim Arun. The Chief Minister also announced financial assistance of Rs 2 lakh each for the families of the deceased and Rs 50,000 for the injured. He is expected to visit Hathras on Wednesday.
Helplines and Support
In response to the tragedy, the district administration has issued helpline numbers: 05722227041 and 05722227042, to assist affected families.
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