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Self-Proclaimed Godman ‘Bhole Baba’ On Hathras Tragedy: “Whoever Has Come Has To Go One Day”

July 18, 2024, 2:07 am

Self-proclaimed religious preacher Suraj Pal, also known as ‘Bhole Baba,’ made his first public appearance on Wednesday since the Hathras stampede, which resulted in the deaths of 121 people on July 2.

“I am extremely sad after the incident of July 2, but who can stop what’s bound to happen? Whoever has come has to go one day or the other,” the godman told ANI.

Alleging conspiracy, Pal, who has not been named in the FIR, added, “Our advocate Dr AP Singh and eyewitnesses have told us about a poisonous spray. It is true that there is some conspiracy. We have faith in the SIT and judicial commission and that the truth will come out…Right now, I am in my birthplace Bahadur Nagar, Kasganj.”

The lawyer of ‘Bhole Baba’ asserted that the stampede was caused by “some poisonous substance” sprayed by “some unidentified men”.

“Witnesses have reached out to me and said there were 15-16 people carrying cans of a poisonous substance that they opened in the crowd. I have seen post-mortem reports of those killed and it showed that they died of asphyxiation and not because of injuries,” the preacher’s lawyer AP Singh had alleged.

At least 11 individuals, including Devprakash Madhukar, the main organiser and fundraiser of the July 2 ‘satsang,’ have been arrested in connection with the stampede that claimed lives. The Uttar Pradesh government’s Special Investigation Team (SIT) has found the ‘satsang’ organisers responsible for the incident. Following this finding, the government suspended the local sub divisional magistrate (SDM), a circle officer, and four others.

According to the SIT report, the organisers of the ‘satsang’ failed to make adequate arrangements to manage the crowd and allegedly obtained permission by withholding crucial information. The probe also revealed that the SDM granted permission for the event without inspecting the venue or informing senior officials. Additionally, members of the organising committee reportedly behaved improperly with the police.

A separate judicial commission, led by retired Allahabad High Court judge Brijesh Kumar Shrivastava and retired IPS Hemant Rao, is also investigating the Hathras stampede incident.

Bhole Baba’s Lawyer Alleges Deliberate Poisoning By 15-16 People At Hathras Tragedy, Sparking Deadly Stampede

July 7, 2024, 6:51 pm

Days after 121 people died in a stampede at a religious gathering in Hathras, the lawyer representing the preacher Bhole Baba claimed the tragedy was caused by a group of around 15-16 individuals who sprayed poison during the event. He further asserted that these individuals quickly fled the scene after triggering the stampede.

The victims of the stampede were mostly women and children. President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed their condolences over the incident. Both the state and central governments announced ex-gratia payments for the families of the deceased as well as for the injured.

While claiming that the stampede was planned, the lawyer said according to PTI, “A heart-wrenching incident happened. 15-16 people were involved in the conspiracy. The permission was taken. The map was attached to the permission. Some unidentified vehicles were there at the spot of the stampede. 10-12 people sprayed poison. Witnesses had said the women were falling and many died due to breathlessness. They fled from the spot. The SIT and SP Hathras are investigating. The CCTV footage should be seized, so that those vehicles can be identified.”

During a press conference in Delhi, lawyer AP Singh also suggested that a conspiracy was behind the stampede, attributing it to Bhole Baba’s “rising popularity.”

“There were vehicles parked at the site to help the men escape. We have proof and we will submit it. This is the first time I am speaking about it,” he added. Singh asserted that the witnesses who contacted him requested anonymity. “We will demand security for them,” he stated.

According to initial investigation reports, the organizers had obtained permission for the event with a maximum attendance limit of 80,000. However, over 2.5 lakh people reportedly attended the event.

Currently, nine individuals, including the main accused Devprakash Madhukar, have been arrested in connection with the stampede.

What Exactly Happened?

A stampede at Bhole Baba’s ‘satsang’ in Hathras on Tuesday, July 2, resulted in a tragic loss of life, with approximately 121 people killed and several others injured. The incident took place during the conclusion of the religious gathering at Phulrai village in the Sikandra Rau police station area of Uttar Pradesh.

The stampede reportedly began when devotees rushed to seek blessings from Bhole Baba after his sermon ended on Tuesday afternoon, resulting in chaotic and devastating outcomes.

Statement of ‘Bhole Baba’ After The Incident

The preacher on Saturday, Bhole Baba issued his first statement expressing deep distress over the tragic incident on July 2, which resulted in the loss of 121 lives. He conveyed solidarity with the victims and expressed confidence in the state authorities to ensure that those responsible are held accountable.

“We are distressed after the incident of July 2. May God give us the strength to overcome this sorrow. We should have faith in the government administration. Culprits will not be spared. We told through our lawyer that we stand with those who are going through this sorrow, with our body, money and mind,” he said.

Surajpal, also known as Narayan Sakar Hari and Bhole Baba, through his lawyer, has agreed to cooperate with the state administration and police in seeking an investigation into the matter. This statement follows his period of being out of public view after the stampede during one of his religious gatherings.

Bhole Baba

Bhole Baba, also known as Narayan Sakar Hari, whose real name is Suraj Pal, is a former government employee who transitioned into a spiritual leader with a significant following in Uttar Pradesh and neighboring states. He claims to have worked in the Intelligence Bureau (IB) and served in the Uttar Pradesh Police before retiring from service to pursue spiritual leadership.

Originally from Bahadur Nagari village in Patiyali tehsil of Etah district, he left his government job 26 years ago to begin delivering religious sermons across Uttar Pradesh. He later resigned and established an ashram in Patiyali. Bhole Baba has millions of followers across Western Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Delhi.

Hathras Stampede: Accused Phones Switched Off, Political Angle Being Investigated

July 7, 2024, 6:46 pm

UP Police has brought Tech Department in the investigation of Hathras Stampede which took 121 lives. Till now nine people linked to the stampede have been under arrest, including the key accused Devprakash Madhukar. Policed has a list of approx 72 accused from which phones of most are switched off since the incident.

The Stampede took place during a religious event of ‘Bhole Baba’ aka Narayana Sakar Hari.

Hathras Police has suspected funding by a Political Party and warned a strict action against them. Madhukar main organiser and fundraiser has been sent to 14 day judicial custody.

Some political links are emerging in the case. The main accused claimed that they received political funding for their events. “The Police will probe this angle as well,” said Nipun Aggarwal, Superintendent of Police Hathras, on Saturday. “The list of donors is being compiled to see from where funding is being done. We are also corresponding with the Income Tax Department. Whoever is guilty of this, they will not be spared,” SP Aggarwal stated.

Hathras Stampede Tragedy: Bhole Baba Accumulated Assets Worth Rs.100 Crore

July 5, 2024, 2:03 pm

Suraj Pal, famously known as Bhole Baba among his followers, has collected assets worth Rs. 100 crores for the past two decades.

This revelation comes around the time, when already an investigation is going on into Hathras stampede tragedy.

Bhole Baba also possesses a huge network of 24 ashrams, a fleet of luxury cars and has a five-star ashram, which looks like a palace. The land on which it was constructed costs Rs. 4 crores.

As per HT, Bhole Baba stays in Mainpuri Ashram, which was constructed on 21 bighas of land. Within this estate, six rooms are solely reserved for his wife and him.

Currently, his organization Shri Narayan Hari Sakar Charitable Trust manages its own ashrams via its subsidiary trusts across the region.

What’s notable is, that one board of his ashram mentioned, that he doesn’t take any donation, however this claim is inconsistent, as names of the donors are written all over ashram walls. These donations usually consist of 100 bags of cement to vehicles and cash for ashram construction. Reports NDTV.

What Exactly Happened?

Meanwhile on Tuesday afternoon, this tragic incident of stampede took place at ‘Satsang’ which was organized by Bhole Baba and his organization in Phulrai village in UP’s Hathras.

As a result, it caused the death of 121 people especially women and children. According to police officials, around 2.5 lakh followers gathered for the satsang. But the space was designed to accommodate only 80,000 people.

When Bhole Baba was leaving from the event, the crowd ran behind to gather the dust from his convoy, believing they will get blessings.

While trying to control the crowd, the volunteers and those responsible for the security tried to manage the people. Thus, causing some people to fall around embankment. But unfortunately, they were squeezed by the crowd. Thus, causing stampede as people started running.

In the aftermath of this incident, Bhole Baba gave its condolences to the family of the victims and held ‘anti-social elements’ responsible for this tragedy.

Currently, around six people have been detained for hathras stampede, but in the FIR, Bhole Baba has not been named but the police hasn’t dismissed the option of taking him into custody and said, that its’s too early to comment on his role.

WATCH: ‘Bhole Baba’ Leaves With His Convoy Shortly After Stampede in Hathras That Killed Around 120

July 4, 2024, 6:34 pm

The tragic stampede incident at Phulrai village in Hathras has put a spotlight on Baba Narayan Hari, also known as Saakar Vishwa Hari ‘Bhole Baba’. CCTV footage shows him leaving the village with his private convoy shortly after the stampede, which claimed 121 lives. The stampede occurred as devotees, mainly women, were returning home from a ‘satsang’ led by the religious preacher.

VIDEO | Hathras stampede: CCTV footage shows self-styled preacher Baba Narayan Hari alias Saakar Vishwa Hari 'Bhole Baba' leaving from the village (Phulrai) with his private convoy just after the incident. pic.twitter.com/t3yoTzVa74

— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) July 4, 2024

Police have attributed the stampede to overcrowding, with videos on social media showing bodies piled up outside a nearby hospital. However, the exact cause of the stampede is still under investigation.

Following the incident, police and special operation group (SOG) personnel entered the ashram of Baba Narayan Hari in search of him. Circle officer Sunil Kumar Singh reported that ‘Bhole Baba’ was not present at the ashram during their visit, although 50-60 sevadars (volunteers), including women, were inside. Additional superintendent of police, Mainpuri, Rahul Mithas clarified that the police visit was for security checks, not an investigation.

The Uttar Pradesh government has formed a three-member judicial commission, led by a retired high court judge, to investigate the Hathras tragedy and explore the possibility of a conspiracy behind the stampede. The commission is expected to submit its report within two months.

An FIR has been filed against the organisers of the ‘satsang’ for allowing 2.5 lakh people to attend the event, despite having permission for only 80,000. The Uttar Pradesh police have arrested six sevadars, including two women, in connection with the stampede. Inspector general of police (Aligarh Range) Shalabh Mathur mentioned that the only accused named in the FIR, Devprakash Madhukar, is still at large, and a reward of Rs 1 lakh has been announced for information leading to his arrest. Additionally, a non-bailable warrant (NBW) will be issued against him. Mathur noted that Baba Narayan Sakar Hari, or Bhole Baba, is not named as an accused in the FIR but may be questioned if necessary during the investigation.

Why Is Bhole Baba Not in Police custody?

July 4, 2024, 6:09 pm

The Uttar Pradesh police on Thursday announced their first arrests in the stampede that occurred at the Hathras religious event. Of those arrested, six were taken into custody; however, one significant person was left out: Bhole Baba, also known as Narayan Saakar Hari, the self-styled godman, in whose honor the ‘satsang’ was held.

The officer stated, “We will make arrests based on what the investigation reveals…,” hinting that they would not rule out placing Pal under arrest. Although it’s too soon to declare or speculate on the baba’s involvement, we will investigate him if needed. The FIR, which has held the organizers accountable, does not include his name. Members of the panel have been arrested, and the organizing group obtained authorization.”

The official stated that the permit was obtained under the name of Ved Prakash Madhukar and that teams have been assigned to find him. They also declared that information leading to his arrest would earn a prize of ₹ 1 lakh.

In response to a question concerning the other charges against the “godman,” who has reportedly also been accused of sexual assault, the officer stated that, as far as they are aware, Pal was a head constable with the UP police and had accepted voluntary retirement from service in 2000 while serving in Agra.

Hathras Stampede Update: 6 Arrested, ₹1 Lakh Bounty On Main Accused

July 4, 2024, 4:14 pm

The Uttar Pradesh police announced on Thursday that six individuals, including two women and four men, have been arrested in connection with the tragic Hathras stampede that resulted in 121 fatalities. Additionally, a ₹1 lakh reward has been offered for the capture of the main suspect, Prakash Madhukar.

A stampede at a religious gathering in Hathras, Uttar Pradesh, led to a devastating loss of lives on Tuesday during a ‘satsang’ dedicated to Lord Shiva in Ratibhanpur.

Bhole Baba, a revered spiritual leader from Bahadur village in Etah district’s Patiali tehsil, has garnered a significant following across India, particularly in western Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Delhi. Formerly an Intelligence Bureau (IB) employee, Bhole Baba left his government job 26 years ago to dedicate himself to delivering religious sermons.

Despite his widespread influence, Bhole Baba maintains a low profile, abstaining from social media and official accounts. His followers highlight his deep-rooted impact at the grassroots level.

In Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, Bhole Baba’s weekly programs every Tuesday attract thousands of devotees, with volunteers ensuring attendees’ needs are met, including food and beverages.

Throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, Bhole Baba continued to draw large crowds to his events, underscoring his enduring popularity and sway among devotees. This is a developing story.

Bhole Baba Breaks Silence On Hathras Tragedy: ‘Miscreants Caused Stampede After I Left’

July 3, 2024, 10:18 pm

Following the Hathras incident, Narayan Sarkar Hari, also known as Bhole Baba, made his first public statement. He revealed that he had left the venue before the incident due to unrest caused by antisocial elements during the Satsang. Bhole Baba expressed his condolences to the victims’ families and announced that he has appointed lawyer AP Singh to handle the case. It is notable that a stampede occurred during Bhole Baba’s satsang in Hathras on Tuesday, leading to the tragic deaths of 121 people.

The aftermath of the stampede in Hathras was horrifying. Many people lost their loved ones, including mothers, aunts, fathers, and in some cases, entire families. Homes were left in darkness, and some families were completely devastated. The victims’ accounts are chilling, with widespread anguish and mourning. Hospitals were overwhelmed with the influx of bodies. Following the incident, Bhole Baba went into hiding, prompting a multi-state search by the UP police. FIRs have been filed against five organizers of the Satsang.

CM Yogi held a press conference to address the Hathras case, announcing a judicial inquiry led by a retired High Court judge. A committee will be formed to investigate the incident. Prior to this, CM Yogi had tasked Additional DGP Agra with the Hathras investigation. Along with District Magistrate Aligarh, a team is compiling a report. CM Yogi emphasized that the government is committed to uncovering the truth, whether the incident was an accident or a conspiracy.

Hathras Stampede: Controversial Leader Bhole Baba Linked To Multiple Sexual Assault Cases

July 3, 2024, 5:29 pm

A tragic Hathras stampede at a religious gathering in Uttar Pradesh Hathras has resulted in the death of over 100 people and left many others injured. The incident occurred on Tuesday during an event organized by the Manav Mangal Milan Sadbhavana Samagam Committee, held in Phulrai Mugalgadhi village.

The congregation was led by a spiritual leader known as Bhole Baba, whose real name is Narayan Sakar Hari. A video circulating on social media shows Hari leaving the event in his car, with hundreds of devotees running behind him to collect the dust from his vehicle as a token of blessing.

Bhole Baba, also known as Suraj Pal, has a history of legal issues, including multiple allegations of sexual assault. These cases have been filed across various locations such as Agra, Etawah, Kasganj, Farrukhabad, and Rajasthan.

In response to the stampede, the Uttar Pradesh Police have registered an FIR against the event organizers, accusing them of concealing evidence and violating conditions. The Hathras Stampede saw an attendance of 2.5 lakh people, far exceeding the permitted limit of 80,000. This is not the first time Bhole Baba’s events have breached regulations. In 2022, he organized a similar gathering in Farrukhabad despite rising COVID-19 cases. The district administration had allowed only 50 people, but over 50,000 attendees caused significant traffic disruptions.

Born in Bahadur Nagar, Suraj Pal initially worked in the police department before facing legal troubles in 1997 due to sexual assault allegations, for which he served time in prison. After his release, he transformed himself into “Saakar Vishwa Hari Baba” and began attracting followers to his ashram in his ancestral village.

Unlike many other spiritual leaders who wear saffron robes, Hari, also known as “Sakar Vishwa Hari Baba of Patiali,” is often seen in white attire. His events typically draw large crowds, and he is known for preaching alongside his wife.

Bhole Baba: Ex-Cop, Intel Officer, and Farmer, Transformed by ‘Divine Encounter’

July 3, 2024, 4:26 pm

Narayan Hari’s transition from a career in law enforcement to becoming a revered spiritual leader, known as Bhole Baba, is a testament to the transformative power of faith and personal conviction.

In the 1990s, Hari, hailing from Bahadur Nagari village in Uttar Pradesh’s Etah district, made a profound decision to retire from the police force, citing a divine calling that redirected his life’s purpose.

His early years were rooted in the agricultural fields of his family, where he imbibed traditional values and a strong work ethic. Educational pursuits in Etah were followed by an 18-year tenure in the police, during which Hari served notably in the Intelligence Unit. However, it was his retirement that marked a turning point, propelling him onto a path of spiritual enlightenment.

Under the moniker Bhole Baba, Hari’s influence transcended regional boundaries, resonating deeply in Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh. His teachings on devotion and spirituality attracted a diverse following, including members from marginalized communities such as SC/ST, OBC, and even Muslims, underscoring his inclusive message.

Tragically, Hari’s popularity led to a fatal incident in Hathras, Uttar Pradesh, where a stampede at one of his gatherings claimed the lives of 121 individuals. This event underscored both the immense impact and the risks associated with his mass gatherings.

Despite the tragedy, Bhole Baba’s legacy endures as a complex tapestry of personal redemption and spiritual leadership. His journey serves as a compelling narrative of resilience and the quest for higher meaning amidst life’s challenges.

Hathras Tragedy: High Casualties Among Women With 50k Attendees-What We Know So Far

July 3, 2024, 12:10 am

A tragic stampede occurred at a religious gathering in Hathras, Uttar Pradesh, resulting in the deaths of at least 116 individuals, including women and children. The incident took place during a ‘satsang’ held in honor of local guru Bhole Baba, also known as Narayan Sakar Hari, attended by approximately 50,000 people.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced Rs 2 lakh as ex-gratia from PMNRF for the families of each deceased person, and Rs 50,000 for each injured individual.

According to a witness, following the conclusion of the ‘satsang’, people began walking outside and accidentally fell into a drain located at the edge of a raised road, leading to panic and chaos.

Bhole Baba

Bhole Baba, also known as Narayan Sakar Hari, hails from Uttar Pradesh and previously worked for the Intelligence Bureau (IB). He resigned from his position 26 years ago to pursue religious preaching.

Bhole Baba commands a large following across Western Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Delhi, numbering in the millions.

What is known about the Hathras stampede so far?

A policeman from the Quick Response Team (QRT) collapsed due to heat and passed away while receiving medical treatment. “Constable Ravi Kumar, posted at Awagarh police station, was on QRT (Quick Response Team) duty since June 17. He fainted due to heat, following which he was brought to the district hospital immediately. He passed away while undergoing treatment,” said Circle Officer Vikrant Dwivedi.
Hathras DM Ashish Kumar stated that the event, organized by Dev Prakash Madhukar, Mahesh Chandra, Anar Singh, Sanju Yadav, Chandra Dev, and Ram Prakash, received permission from the SDM.
An eyewitness of the incident informed PTI, “After the ‘satsang’ ended, everyone came out. Outside, the road was built at a height with a drain below. One after the other, people started falling into it. Some people got crushed.”
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath acknowledged the incident and directed the formation of a committee to investigate it.
President Droupadi Murmu used a microblogging platform (site X) to express her wishes for the swift recovery of those injured in the incident. “The news of the death of many devotees including women and children in the accident in Hathras district of Uttar Pradesh is heart-rending. I express my deepest condolences to those who lost their family members and pray for the speedy recovery of those injured,” the President wrote.
During his response on the Motion of Thanks to the President’s Address in the Lok Sabha, the Prime Minister referred to the Hathras incident and assured that the central government is maintaining regular communication with the state government to provide assistance to the victims in every possible manner.
“There are reports of many people dying in the stampede in Hathras, Uttar Pradesh. I express my condolences to those who lost their lives in this accident. I wish for the speedy recovery of all the injured. The administration is engaged in relief and rescue work under the supervision of the state government. Senior officials of the central government are in constant touch with the Uttar Pradesh government. I assure everyone through this House that the victims will be helped in every way,” said PM Modi in Lok Sabha.

What Lead To Hathras Stampede? Insights From Eyewitnesses

July 2, 2024, 9:39 pm

Tragedy struck in Uttar Pradesh’s Hathras district on Tuesday as a stampede at a religious event organized by preacher Bhole Baba claimed the lives of at least 107 people, predominantly women. The incident occurred in Rati Bhanpur village following a satsang, where devotees began leaving the venue, resulting in the chaotic stampede, according to eyewitnesses and officials.

Ashish Kumar, the SHO of Sikandra Rao police station, attributed the stampede to overcrowding. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath expressed sorrow over the incident, offering condolences to the affected families and ensuring that an FIR would be filed against the event organizers.

Inspector General Shalabh Mathur of Aligarh Range explained that the satsang, held inside a closed tent with temporary permission, led to discomfort among attendees due to suffocation, prompting the fatal rush to exit.

Eyewitness Jyoti, a teenager hospitalized in Etah, recounted the frantic scene: “There was a huge crowd and when the satsang ended, everyone rushed to leave. The enclosure had no clear exit, causing people to fall on each other, leading to the stampede. Motorcycles parked outside blocked our way out.”

In response to the tragedy, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav criticized the BJP-led state government for its handling of the event’s safety measures, urging support for the victims’ families and quality medical treatment for the injured.

The incident at Hathras has sparked widespread grief and calls for accountability as authorities investigate the circumstances surrounding one of the deadliest stampedes in recent memory.

Who Is ‘Bhole Baba’? Unveiling The Self-Styled Godman At The Heart Of The Hathras Satsang Tragedy

July 2, 2024, 7:49 pm

A tragic stampede at a religious gathering in Uttar Pradesh’s Hathras district claimed the lives of over 80 people and left many others injured. The incident unfolded at the conclusion of a satsang conducted by Narayan Sakaar Hari, also known as Sakaar Vishwa Hari or Bhole Baba.

Upon learning of the catastrophe, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath directed officials to immediately reach the site and initiate relief efforts.

Bhole Baba, a revered spiritual leader, hails from Bahadur village in the Patiali tehsil of Etah district. Claiming to be a former Intelligence Bureau (IB) employee, he allegedly left his government job 26 years ago to embark on his mission of delivering religious sermons. Today, Bhole Baba commands a massive following across India, particularly in western Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Delhi.

Unlike many modern religious figures, Bhole Baba remains absent from social media and does not maintain any official accounts. His followers assert that his influence is profound at the grassroots level.

Every Tuesday, Bhole Baba’s programs in Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, attract thousands of devotees. Volunteers at these events ensure that attendees have access to food and drinks, among other necessary arrangements.

Bhole Baba gained notable attention for continuing to draw large crowds despite restrictions during the Covid-19 pandemic, showcasing his enduring appeal and influence.

The recent stampede has cast a somber shadow over his latest gathering, prompting a swift response from authorities and a call for enhanced safety measures at large religious events.