In a heart-wrenching event, a stampede at a religious gathering in Hathras, Uttar Pradesh, claimed 116 lives and left many more injured. The Tuesday event plunged the country and the community into great sadness.
Organized by Narayan Sakaar Vishwa Hari, commonly known as Bhole Baba, in Pulrai village, the stampede occurred during a “satsang,” a spiritual discourse. The event drew thousands of followers, far exceeding the anticipated count. Initial reports state that the arena was approved to host 80,000 people, but actual attendance was much higher.
As the satsang concluded, the large audience began to disperse, causing turmoil and terror. According to eyewitnesses, the stampede began when individuals surged toward the exits, resulting in a lethal crush. The extreme heat and humidity compounded the situation, with several victims being trampled underfoot.
Local officials and rescue services responded quickly to the incident. Victims were transported to nearby hospitals, including the Sikandara Rao Trauma Centre, in trucks and other vehicles. The injured are receiving medical treatment, and efforts are ongoing to provide the best possible care.
The Uttar Pradesh government has announced compensation of Rs 2 lakh for the families of the deceased and Rs 50,000 for the injured. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his profound grief over the incident and assured the state government of all necessary assistance.
An extensive investigation has been launched to determine the precise cause of the stampede. Initial findings suggest that congestion and inadequate crowd control were major factors. The event organizers have been charged with negligence and disregard for safety standards.
Aligarh Range IG Shalabh Mathur confirmed the fatality count and stated that the bodies were sent to various locations for autopsy. He emphasized that the investigation would be thorough and that those responsible would be held accountable.
The tragedy has elicited a wave of sympathy from across the nation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Droupadi Murmu both conveyed their heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has directed authorities to ensure that relief efforts are carried out swiftly and efficiently.
Home Minister Amit Shah also spoke with the Chief Minister to gather details about the situation and assured all possible central support. An NDRF team has been dispatched to Hathras to assist with relief efforts.
This event serves as a sobering reminder of the risks associated with large gatherings, particularly in areas lacking adequate infrastructure and safety measures. It underscores the critical need for stringent crowd control policies and improved planning to prevent such tragedies in the future.
As the community mourns the loss of lives, the focus now shifts to supporting the affected families and ensuring that such a calamity never occurs again. It is hoped that the investigation will provide justice and clarity, and that the lessons learned will help shape better safety protocols for future events.
This tragic incident has left an indelible mark on Hathras and the nation. The outpouring of sympathy and collective grief highlights the community’s resilience and unity in the face of such a devastating loss.