Hathras Stampede UP Religious Gathering: A tragic stampede occurred during a religious event in Hathras, Uttar Pradesh, led by spiritual leader Suraj Pal, known as ‘Bhole Baba’. This incident, one of the deadliest in recent years, resulted in the loss of at least 121 lives, primarily women.
The catastrophe struck on Tuesday, July 2, as participants were leaving a ‘satsang’ in Phulrai village. The event, organized by Suraj Pal, also known as ‘Narayan Sakar Hari’ or ‘Bhole Baba’, ended in chaos with suffocation and a deadly pile-up.
How the Hathras Stampede Unfolded
The disaster took place in Rati Bhanpur village, in the Sikandra Rau area of Hathras, soon after Bhole Baba addressed his followers. Initial police reports indicate that overcrowding and suffocation led to panic, causing people to flee and triggering the stampede. Investigations are ongoing, but factors such as high humidity and the rush of devotees to touch Bhole Baba’s feet are considered contributing elements. Chief Secretary Manoj Kumar Singh mentioned that the stampede likely began when devotees attempted to seek blessings from Bhole Baba by collecting ‘pair ki dhool’ (dust from his feet).
Despite a significant police presence, the venue was overwhelmed by attendees far exceeding the permitted number. Eyewitnesses recounted the chaos as the crowd surged towards Bhole Baba’s car, intensifying the stampede. District Magistrate Ashish Kumar noted that the extreme humidity compounded the situation as people attempted to leave.
Survivor Accounts and Official Statements
One survivor described the scene as chaotic, with the stampede beginning after the event ended and the crowd attempted to exit. “There was a massive crowd with no clear way out. Motorcycles parked outside further blocked the exit, leading to people fainting and others dying,” a victim told The Indian Express.
Government Response to the Hathras Incident
Reports indicate that Bhole Baba, originally named Suraj Pal, may face arrest. He is currently at his ashram in Mainpuri, about 100 km from Phulrai village. Senior police officials are investigating both the stampede site and his ashram, the Ram Kutir Charitable Trust.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has announced an ex gratia payment of Rs 2 lakh to the families of the deceased and Rs 50,000 for the injured. This next Wednesday, he is going to Hathras.
Both Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Droupadi Murmu sent their sympathies. PM Modi said on X (previously Twitter) “My condolences go out to the families of the deceased in Hathras. Prayers with the injured. The UP Government is working to assist those affected.”
President Murmu described the incident as ‘heart-wrenching’, while Congress leader Rahul Gandhi called on the government to support the affected families.It is heartbreaking to learn that several devotees, including women and children, perished in the disaster in the Uttar Pradesh district of Hathras. President Murmu remarked, “I offer my sincere condolences to those who lost loved ones and I hope those who were hurt get well soon.
Rahul Gandhi urged INDIA alliance workers to assist the injured. “…I send my sincere sympathies to the families of those who have lost a loved one and wish the injured people a quick recovery. We want the government and administration to help the impacted families and treat the injured as best they can. He said, “All Indian workers are asked to cooperate in relief and rescue efforts.”
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Legal Action Against Organizers
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 brought under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) sections 105, 110, 126 (2), 223, and 238.
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The event is being looked into by a high-level committee that is chaired by the Aligarh Commissioner and the Additional Director General of Police, Agra.
For those impacted by the Hathras stampede, the Uttar Pradesh government has established two helplines, 05722227041 and 05722227042.
FAQs
What caused the Hathras stampede?
The stampede was triggered by overcrowding and suffocation at a religious event led by Bhole Baba in Hathras, Uttar Pradesh. Factors such as high humidity and the rush of devotees to touch Bhole Baba’s feet contributed to the chaos.
How many people died in the Hathras stampede?
At least 121 people, mostly women, lost their lives in the stampede.
What measures are being taken for the affected families?
Uttar Pradesh 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. Additionally, helpline numbers have been launched for those affected.
Is Bhole Baba facing any legal action?
Yes, Bhole Baba, whose real name is Suraj Pal, is expected to face arrest. A case has been filed against the event organizers for exceeding the permitted attendee limit.
How is the government responding to the incident?
The government has launched an investigation into the incident, announced compensation for the victims’ families, and established a high-level committee to oversee the investigation.