In a devastating incident on Tuesday, a stampede at a religious event in Uttar Pradesh's Hathras resulted in the deaths of at least 121 people, including 106 women and seven children. The tragic event occurred during a 'satsang' (prayer meeting) attended by thousands, leading to chaos and loss of life.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath promptly addressed the incident by establishing a committee to investigate the causes of the stampede. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Droupadi Murmu expressed their heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and extended their prayers for the speedy recovery of the injured. PM Modi assured that the central government is providing all possible assistance to the Uttar Pradesh administration.
Hathras District Magistrate Ashish Kumar reported that initial figures from the community health center indicated 50-60 fatalities. Officials in Etah district confirmed an additional 27 deaths. By the evening, Inspector General (Aligarh Range) Shalabh Mathur updated the death toll to 116, which subsequently rose to 121 by the next morning.
"The stampede broke out in Phulrai village within the Sikandra Rao police station limits in Hathras. This was a private event with permission granted by the sub-divisional magistrate. While security arrangements were provided by the administration, the organizers were responsible for other arrangements," explained Kumar.
Narayan Saakar Hari, also known as 'Bhole Baba,' the preacher who conducted the satsang, is currently missing. Deputy Superintendent of Police Sunil Kumar reported that a search operation was conducted at the Ram Kutir Charitable Trust in Mainpuri district, but Bhole Baba remains at large. The Uttar Pradesh Police are actively searching for the self-styled godman, whose event ended in such tragic circumstances.
The horrific stampede has shocked the nation, leading to widespread calls for accountability and better management of large gatherings. Chief Minister Adityanath's swift action in forming an investigative committee reflects the urgent need to understand how the event spiraled into chaos.
Prime Minister Modi's statement of support underscores the central government's commitment to aiding the state in dealing with the aftermath of the tragedy. "The Centre is extending all possible help to the Uttar Pradesh government," PM Modi affirmed.
Witnesses described scenes of panic and confusion as the large crowd tried to exit the venue simultaneously, leading to a deadly crush. Emergency services were quickly overwhelmed by the sheer number of casualties, and the local hospitals struggled to cope with the influx of injured individuals.
The investigation will focus on several critical aspects, including the adequacy of the security measures, the organizers' preparedness for such a large gathering, and the specific triggers that led to the stampede. The role of Bhole Baba and his whereabouts are also under scrutiny as authorities seek to hold responsible parties accountable.
The tragic stampede in Hathras has cast a shadow over the region, leaving families mourning their lost loved ones and raising urgent questions about the safety and management of large religious events. As the investigation proceeds, there is hope that lessons learned from this tragedy will lead to better planning and safer conditions for future gatherings. The nation stands in solidarity with the victims and their families, offering prayers and support during this difficult time.