Tragic Stampede at Hathras Religious Event: 116 Lives Lost
Hathras Stampede: A Heartbreaking Incident
03.07.2024: On Tuesday, a tragic stampede at a ‘satsang’ (prayer meeting) organized by self-styled godman Bhole Baba, also known as Narayan Saakar Hari, resulted in the deaths of at least 116 people, including women and children. The event, held in Hathras, Uttar Pradesh, turned disastrous as the crowd became uncontrollable.
The Incident
The stampede occurred during the prayer meeting, leading to chaos and panic. Visuals from the Community Health Centre showed numerous bodies being brought in buses and tempos, with distraught relatives mourning their loved ones. The scene was one of immense grief and confusion.
Official Response
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has ordered a thorough investigation into the incident. A committee has been established to examine the causes and circumstances of the stampede. Both President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi have expressed their condolences to the victims’ families.
Investigation and Legal Action
FIR Details
The FIR against the ‘satsang’ organizers revealed disturbing details about the event. According to the report, the overcrowding was due to poor management and excessive attendance beyond the permitted number. The FIR stated, “Devotees sitting on the ground were crushed due to the uncontrollable crowd leaving the venue. The pressure of the crowd increased as the organizing committee forcibly stopped people with sticks.”
Legal Charges
A case has been filed against the organizers, citing violations under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Permission was granted for 80,000 attendees, but over 2.5 lakh people were present. The high-level committee investigating the incident is headed by the Additional Director General of Police, Agra, and the Aligarh Commissioner.
On-Site Developments
Forensic Investigation
A forensic unit and dog squad have been deployed at the stampede site in Hathras. Teams from the Uttar Pradesh Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) are also present, working to gather evidence and manage the aftermath.
Arrest of Bhole Baba
Baba Narayan Hari, the event’s organizer, is likely to be arrested soon. Known by various names, including Suraj Pal and Saakar Vishwa Hari Bhole Baba, he is believed to be at his ashram in Mainpuri, about 100 km from Phulrai village, where the incident occurred. Senior police officials are actively searching for him.
Identification and Assistance
Most of the 116 victims have been identified. Efforts are ongoing to provide medical care to the injured. Aligarh DM Vishak G Iyer reported that 23 bodies have been brought to Aligarh, and three injured individuals are receiving treatment, with one in critical condition.
Reactions and Condolences
Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla expressed deep sorrow over the incident, stating, “The death of a large number of devotees, including women and children, in the accident in Hathras is extremely sad. May God give a place to the departed souls in his lotus feet and give strength to the bereaved families.”
Government Action
Immediate Measures
- The Chief Minister is holding a meeting with officials at his residence.
- Updates are being provided by three ministers, the chief secretary, and the Director General of Police.
- Strict action has been ordered against those responsible for the tragedy.
The Hathras stampede is a sobering reminder of the importance of crowd control and safety measures at large gatherings. As investigations continue, the focus remains on supporting the affected families and ensuring justice is served.