A devastating stampede in Hathras, Uttar Pradesh, during a ‘satsang’ organized by ‘godman’ Bhole Baba has claimed the lives of 121 people, prompting swift action from authorities. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) report has cited severe mismanagement and negligence by local officials and organizers, leading to the suspension of six officials, including the Sub Divisional Magistrate (SDM) responsible for permitting the event.
The SIT report, submitted to Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, highlighted critical lapses in the handling of the event. It revealed that the SDM allowed the gathering without inspecting the venue or informing higher authorities, a decision that proved disastrous as overcrowding exacerbated by inadequate safety measures led to the stampede.
Organizers reportedly underestimated attendance figures, expecting 80,000 but hosting over 2.5 lakh attendees without sufficient crowd control measures or emergency provisions. The report also criticized the police for failing to promptly inform senior officials about the unfolding tragedy and for lax supervision of the event.
The investigation pointed to a potential conspiracy, suggesting deliberate attempts by organizers to mislead authorities and evade safety regulations. Nine people, including the main organizer Devprakash Madhukar, have been arrested in connection with the incident.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, visiting Hathras, assured the affected families of ₹2 lakh compensation for each deceased and ₹50,000 for the injured. He vowed stringent action against those responsible, emphasizing the state’s commitment to uncovering any possible conspiracy behind the tragedy.
The Supreme Court has also taken cognizance of the incident, with Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud scheduling a hearing to consider a plea for a judicial committee to investigate the stampede thoroughly.
Sources By Agencies
