A stampede at a religious event in India’s largest state Uttar Pradesh’s Hathras district claimed at least 116 lives and left 18 others injured. The incident, which occurred during a ‘Bhole Baba’ program, has prompted a thorough investigation by the Uttar Pradesh government to determine if it was an accident or a conspiracy.
Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh (UP) Yogi Adityanath’s Response
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, addressing the media on Tuesday, expressed his commitment to uncovering the truth behind the incident. “The government is already sensitive in this matter and will get to the bottom of whether this is an accident or a conspiracy, and give appropriate punishment to all those responsible for this incident,” he stated.”
“Doing politics instead of expressing condolences on such an incident is extremely unfortunate and condemnable.”
To ensure a comprehensive investigation, a team led by Additional DG Agra has been formed to provide a detailed report. Additionally, the Chief Secretary and DGP of the state, along with three state ministers, Chaudhary Laxmi Narayan, Sandeep Singh, and Asim Arun, are on-site to oversee the situation.
Details of the Incident Describing the scenario that led to the stampede, UP CM Yogi explained, “Local organisers had organised a program of ‘Bhole Baba’. After the program, when the preacher of the Satsang was coming down from the stage, suddenly a crowd of devotees started going towards him to touch him and when the ‘sevadars’ stopped them, this accident happened there.”
Government’s Support and Condolences Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah have expressed their deep sorrow and condolences to the bereaved families. Both the Government of India and the state government have announced compensation of Rs 2 lakh each to the families of the deceased and Rs 50,000 each to the families of the seriously injured.
Emergency Response and Medical Aid Aligarh Commissioner Chaitra V confirmed, “116 people have been confirmed dead. 18 people are injured. Treatment is being ensured for the injured in Aligarh district. Primary investigation is being carried out.”
Aligarh District Magistrate Vishak added that a total of 23 bodies have been received in Aligarh, with 15 at Aligarh Medical College, 6 at Malkhan Singh Hospital, and 2 at the PM House.
India’s President Droupadi Murmu expressed her heartfelt condolences, describing the incident as “heart-wrenching”.
“The news of the accident in Hathras district of Uttar Pradesh, resulting in the deaths of many devotees, including women and children, is heart-wrenching. I express my deep condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones and wish for the speedy recovery of the injured,”
she stated.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed his condolences and wished for the speedy recovery of the injured. He assured that all necessary help would be provided to the victims and reiterated his condolences during his reply to the motion of thanks on the President’s address in Lok Sabha.
Political Reactions Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi emphasised the need for sensitive government support, stating, “The government should help people sensitively. I offer my condolences to all the families who have lost their loved ones.”
Samajwadi Party Cheif Akhilesh Yadav questioned the government’s preparedness, asking, “What was the government doing when such an incident took place? So many people have lost their lives. It is sad that if the government knew that there would be a large gathering at an event, what did they do for their safety?”
He also stressed the importance of providing help to the families of the deceased and ensuring the best treatment for the injured.
The investigation into the Hathras stampede continues as the state and central governments work together to provide support and uncover the truth behind this tragic incident.
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