Hathras Stampede News Highlights: Death Toll Rises to 116; CM Yogi Adityanath Assures Action
A tragic stampede during a religious event in Hathras, Uttar Pradesh, has resulted in the deaths of at least 116 people, with many more injured. The incident occurred on Tuesday afternoon at a satsang (spiritual discourse) led by Bhole Baba in the village of Rati Bhanpur.
Key Updates
- Death Toll and Victim Identification: As of the latest updates, the death toll has risen to 116. Most of the victims, primarily women, have been identified. Efforts are ongoing to identify the remaining bodies.
- Crowd Mismanagement: The stampede happened due to overcrowding. The event had permission for about 25,000 attendees, but nearly 100,000 people showed up.
- Government Response: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has assured strict action against those responsible. He has announced an ex gratia of ₹2 lakh for the families of the deceased and ₹50,000 for the injured.
- Investigation and Accountability: An FIR has been lodged against the organizers for exceeding the permitted number of attendees. A high-level inquiry has been ordered to investigate the cause of the stampede.
Condolences and Reactions
- Political Leaders: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Akhilesh Yadav , Rahul Gandhi, President Droupadi Murmu, and various state leaders, including Jharkhand CM Champai Soren and Puducherry CM N Rangasamy, have expressed their condolences.
- International Envoys: German, Chinese, and French envoys have extended their condolences to the victims' families.
On-the-Ground Scene
- Hospital Chaos: Bodies were seen lying on blocks of ice at the local hospital as relatives waited for the autopsy results in a state of grief.
- Eyewitness Accounts: Witnesses reported that the stampede began as attendees started leaving the venue after the satsang. The overcrowding and subsequent panic led to the fatal stampede.
Official Statements
- CM Yogi Adityanath: He held a meeting with senior officials and is in constant touch with the chief secretary and DGP. He will visit Hathras to oversee the situation personally.
- Police and Administration: IG Aligarh Shalabh Mathur confirmed the death toll and stated that those found guilty will be held accountable. The police have begun identifying and registering cases against the event organizers.
Background on Bhole Baba
Bhole Baba, also known as Saakar Vishwa Hari, is a former state police officer turned religious preacher. He has a significant following, and his events typically draw large crowds.
Summary :
The Hathras stampede has caused widespread sorrow and outrage. The incident underscores the critical need for better crowd management and safety measures at large gatherings. The Uttar Pradesh government is taking steps to ensure justice for the victims and prevent such tragedies in the future.