In a devastating turn of events on Tuesday, July 2, a religious gathering in Hathras district, Uttar Pradesh, resulted in the deaths of at least 121 people, predominantly women. The tragic incident occurred during a ‘Satsang’ in Phulrai village, organized by the spiritual leader ‘Bhole Baba’.
This catastrophe unfolded as attendees were departing the event, leading to suffocation and a chaotic pile-up of bodies. The event, orchestrated by Suraj Pal, also known as ‘Narayan Sakar Hari’ or ‘Bhole Baba’, from Bahadur Nagar village in Kasganj district, has become one of the most severe stampedes in recent history.
How Did the Hathras Stampede Happen?
The incident took place in Rati Bhanpur village, within the Sikandra Rau area of Hathras district, soon after Bhole Baba addressed his followers. Preliminary police reports suggest that the overcrowded venue and extreme humidity contributed to suffocation, causing panic and triggering the stampede.
Officials are still investigating the precise cause, but initial findings point to devotees’ eagerness to touch Bhole Baba’s feet as a potential trigger. Chief Secretary Manoj Kumar Singh noted that the stampede likely started when devotees attempted to seek blessings, a ritual involving collecting ‘pair ki dhool’ (dust from his feet).
Despite a substantial police presence, the crowd exceeded the permitted limit, leading to chaos. Eyewitnesses reported a surge towards Bhole Baba as he was leaving in his car, intensifying the stampede. District Magistrate Ashish Kumar mentioned that extreme humidity might have worsened the situation as followers began to exit.
Survivor Accounts and Official Statements
Survivors painted a grim picture of the chaos. One described the scene, stating, “There was a massive crowd with no clear way out. Motorcycles parked outside further blocked the exit, leading to people fainting and others dying,” as quoted by The Indian Express.
Government Response to the Hathras Incident
Bhole Baba, whose real name is Suraj Pal, is expected to face arrest soon, reported NDTV. He is reportedly at his ashram in Mainpuri, about 100 km from Phulrai village. Senior police officials are investigating the stampede site and his ashram, the Ram Kutir Charitable Trust.
UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath announced an ex gratia payment of Rs 2 lakh to the families of the deceased and Rs 50,000 for the injured. He plans to visit Hathras on Wednesday.
President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed their condolences. PM Modi stated on X , “My thoughts are with those bereaved in Hathras. Prayers with the injured. The UP Government is working to assist those affected.”
President Murmu called the incident ‘heart-wrenching’, and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi urged the government to provide all necessary support to the affected families. “The news of the death of many devotees including women and children in the accident in Hathras district of Uttar Pradesh is heart-wrenching. I express my deepest condolences to those who lost their family members and wish a speedy recovery to those injured,” President Murmu said.
Organizers Face Legal Action
A case has been filed against the event organizers for exceeding the permitted attendee limit. The FIR states that permission was granted for 80,000 people, but over 250,000 attended. Charges have been filed under sections 105, 110, 126 (2), 223, and 238 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
A high-level committee, led by the Additional Director General of Police, Agra, and the Aligarh Commissioner, has been established to investigate the incident.
The Uttar Pradesh government has launched two helpline numbers, 05722227041 and 05722227042, for those affected by the Hathras stampede.
The tragic stampede in Hathras has left the community in shock and mourning. As investigations continue and support efforts ramp up, it is crucial to ensure such incidents are prevented in the future. The government and organizers must work together to implement better safety measures at large gatherings.
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