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Chief Justice Of India Chandrachud Orders Hathras Stampede Case To Be Listed For Judicial Hearing

July 9, 2024, 4:52 pm

Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud mentioned orally on July 9 in the Supreme Court that the Hathras stampede deaths case has been scheduled for judicial hearing.

“I had yesterday ordered the Hathras matter to be listed,” Chandrachud stated.

On July 3, a writ petition was submitted to the Supreme Court requesting the appointment of a five-member expert committee, overseen by a retired Supreme Court judge, to investigate the Hathras stampede, which resulted in over 121 deaths.

“Several questions brew up from this horrific incident of stampede thereby questioning the duty and lapse of State Government and Municipal Corporations. Apart from the failure of maintaining and administering the supervision, the authorities have also failed in controlling the crowd gathered for the event,” the petition stated.

The petition has urged the court to instruct the Uttar Pradesh government to provide a status report and take legal action against those who were negligent regarding safety and crowd control measures.

Several flaws were discovered in the way the entire religious celebration in Hathras was planned, resulting in the terrible stampede that killed 121 people and injured several others. From no entry-exit points to a lack of emergency routes, Uttar Pradesh Police sources have identified serious blunders that contributed to the disaster, even as VVIP arrangements were made for religious preacher ‘Bhole Baba’.

Hathras Stampede: SIT Finds ‘Satsang’ Organisers Negligent, Blames Overcrowding

July 9, 2024, 10:47 am

A Special Investigation Team (SIT) investigating the stampede in Hathras has recorded 119 statements and submitted a report on Tuesday. The report indicates that the committee organizing the ‘Satsang’ was responsible for inviting more people than permitted.

According to sources, the committee failed to make adequate arrangements and the officials had not inspected the site despite granting permission. The nearly 300-page report includes statements from 119 individuals, including family members of the deceased and injured devotees. Along with the police officers on duty on July 2, the SIT also recorded testimony from DM Hathras Ashish Kumar, SP Nipun Agarwal, SDM, and CO Sikandrarao, who granted permission for the Satsang.

POST:

Hathras Stampede: SIT says organisers of ‘Satsang’ responsible for mishap

Read @ANI Story | https://t.co/hFdCyP6NcI #Hathras #UttarPradesh #Stampede #Satsang pic.twitter.com/0BnvN0B5vi

— ANI Digital (@ani_digital) July 9, 2024

During the report’s submission to the government, Aligarh Commissioner Chaitra V and ADG Agra Zone Anupam Kulshreshtha were also present. An eyewitness to the incident stated earlier on Monday that the stampede was caused by a huge number of devotees trying to gather “Baba’s Charan Dhul,” or dirt off the godman’s foot. “The incident happened after ‘Baba’ announced that devotees should take soil from around his feet,” Mughalgarhi village resident Sudhir Pratap Singh said.

The believers hurried to gather the dirt, but as they did, they began to topple over and pile up.” “Baba’s convoy left the spot amid the stampede,” he continued. The only people that assisted the devotees who were there were the locals and the officials.” In the Hathras stampede case, the Uttar Pradesh Judicial Commission team recorded statements from multiple eyewitnesses.

In the meantime, AP Singh, the godman’s representative, asserted that the accident was brought on by guys who sprayed poison during the occasion. “The stampede incident at the Satsang was not an accident but a conspiracy,” Singh claimed, adding that the conspirators had left the scene after starting the rush.

The incident happened on July 2 at a religious “Satsang” held by self-styled godman Suraj Pal, also known as “Bhole Baba,” in Fulari hamlet in the Hathras region of Uttar Pradesh. The primary culprit in the case, Devprakash Madhukar, appeared before the Chief Judicial Magistrate Court on Saturday and was given a 14-day judicial custody sentence.

The judge asked him if he had formal consent for the function and who gave it. In response, Madhukar stated that he had authorization from the SDM to host an event for 80,000 people. In response to a question regarding publicity, Madhukar denied any involvement.

Madhukar had been evading authorities, and a reward of Rs 1 lakh was declared for information that would result in his capture. On July 5, he was ultimately taken into custody in the nation’s capital.

The police also reported that Sanju Yadav and Ramprakash Shakya, two more accused, were taken into custody. “Bhole Baba” had earlier declared in a video address on July 6 that “those who created the chaos will not be spared.” Suraj Pal, a.k.a. Narayan Sakar Hari, the self-described godman, conveyed his sorrow and expressed sympathy for the victims of the incident.

Godman’s Lawyer: Toxic Substance Sprayed At Hathras Event Triggered Stampede

July 8, 2024, 1:06 am

AP Singh, the lawyer representing self-styled godman Suraj Pal alias Narayan Sakar Hari, asserted during a media address that the tragic stampede at the July 2 satsang was not accidental but a premeditated conspiracy. According to Singh, witnesses have informed him that during the event, 15-16 individuals with covered faces were present, carrying cans of a poisonous substance which they dispersed into the crowd. He cited post-mortem reports indicating deaths due to asphyxiation rather than injuries.

Claiming evidence of a conspiracy, Singh alleged that vehicles were strategically parked for the perpetrators’ escape, emphasizing his intention to submit proof. He urged the police to secure CCTV footage crucial for identifying those responsible. “This is not an accident. It’s a murder,” asserted Singh.

Currently, Uttar Pradesh Police has arrested nine individuals, including two women and three senior citizens, several of whom were volunteers at the satsang. Among them is Dev Prakash Madhukar, the main organizer implicated for his role in fundraising for Narayan Sakar Hari’s events through donation collections.

Contrary to police assertions, Singh, who also represents Madhukar, clarified that his client surrendered in Delhi while seeking medical treatment, dismissing any involvement in criminal activities related to the incident.

Notably, Suraj Pal, though not named in the FIR, remains untraceable since the stampede.

Hathras Stampede: ‘Mukhya Sevadar’ Dev Prakash Madhukar Sent To Judicial Custody

July 6, 2024, 7:34 pm

Dev Prakash Madhukar, the primary accused in the Hathras stampede, has been remanded to 14-day judicial custody by a court in Uttar Pradesh. Madhukar is the ‘mukhya sevadar’ of the ‘satsang’ where the stampede occurred. The tragedy, which claimed 121 lives and left hundreds injured, occurred on July 2 when thousands flocked to witness a satsang by Surajpal alias Bhole Baba.

In the latest development, Hathras police said on Friday that they arrested Madhukar, named as the prime suspect in the FIR filed after the stampede. Madhukar had obtained permission for the Satsang from the local sub-divisional magistrate.

“Madhukar had been on the run since July 2. He was arrested late Friday night,” said Nipun Agarwal, superintendent of police in Hathras. “He will be questioned in detail about his links with Baba, and information about other core members of the organizing committee will also be gathered.” The police had announced a reward of ₹1 lakh for Madhukar’s arrest.

Video | Hathras Stampede Victim’s Frustration: Delayed Ambulance and Government Aid

July 5, 2024, 3:48 pm

A victim of the Hathras stampede incident expressed deep frustration over the delayed ambulance response and inadequate arrangements at the scene. Recounting the harrowing experience, the victim lamented, “The ambulance arrived very late, and there were no arrangements at that time. If Baba had power then this incident would not have happened and now he disappeared after the incident.” Here’s the statement of the victim:

Watch: “…The ambulance arrived very late, and there were no arrangements at that time. The government has given a cheque of two lakh rupees. If Baba had power then this incident would not have happened and now he disappeared after the incident” says a victim of Hathras stampede… pic.twitter.com/Zf5CThsVaR

— IANS (@ians_india) July 5, 2024

The incident, which resulted in chaos and tragedy, has sparked widespread concern and criticism. The victim highlighted the critical delays in emergency services, which exacerbated the situation during the stampede.

Hathras Stampede Main Accused Fired, Police Search Escalates

July 5, 2024, 2:33 pm

Dev Prakash Madhukar, implicated as the main figure in the Hathras stampede, has been relieved of his duties as a technical assistant overseeing MGNREGA projects in Sheetalpur block, Etah district, Uttar Pradesh.

He had held this position since 2010 under contract, responsible for managing bills and vouchers related to MGNREGA-funded development projects.

Following his identification as the prime accused in the FIR, Block Development Officer Dinesh Sharma initiated the process to terminate Madhukar’s contract. Police have issued a reward of Rs 1 lakh for information leading to his apprehension, as he is currently evading arrest with a non-bailable warrant issued against him.

Madhukar’s involvement allegedly extended to encouraging residents of his native village to participate in the satsang organized by self-styled godman Suraj Pal, also known as Bhole Baba, where the tragic stampede occurred.

He has also been noted for his previous unsuccessful bid in the village pradhan election, residing in Sikandra Rau town, Hathras, with his wife who works as a panchayat assistant.

Police efforts to locate Madhukar and other suspects have intensified across Rajasthan, Haryana, and parts of Eastern Uttar Pradesh. Rahul Gandhi, Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, criticized administrative lapses during his visit to Hathras, urging Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to swiftly compensate the victims’ families.

The investigation into the Hathras stampede continues as authorities pursue leads and assess responsibilities in the tragic incident.

Hathras Stampede: Here’s What Rahul Gandhi Requests Yogi

July 5, 2024, 10:53 am

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi visited Pilakhna village in Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, on Friday morning to meet with families affected by the tragic Hathras stampede, which claimed the lives of 121 people and left over a dozen injured. The stampede occurred during a religious gathering led by Suraj Pal, also known as Narayan Sakar Hari or ‘Bhole Baba’.

WATCH:

#WATCH | Hathras, Uttar Pradesh: After meeting the bereaved families of the Hathras Stampede accident, Congress leader and Lok Sabha MP Rahul Gandhi says, “A lot of families have been affected and many people have died… I dont want to politicise this. There have been… pic.twitter.com/dohI2TpGVY

— ANI (@ANI) July 5, 2024

Gandhi expressed condolences to the bereaved families and refrained from politicizing the incident, emphasizing the need for enhanced compensation for the affected families, who he described as very poor. He urged Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to provide more compensation promptly.

Speaking to reporters, Gandhi highlighted deficiencies in the system and acknowledged the families’ grievances regarding inadequate police arrangements during the gathering. He assured them of assistance through his party and listened to their accounts of the tragic event.

Accompanying Gandhi on his visit were state Congress chief Ajay Rai, party spokesperson Supriya Shrinate, and other officials. After his visit to Pilakhna village, Gandhi proceeded to Hathras, where he planned to meet with more families of the stampede victims in the Vibhav Nagar area later in the day.

The visit comes amidst calls for swift action and support for the affected families as investigations into the causes of the stampede continue.

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.

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.

Hathras Tragedy: Rahul Gandhi Plans To Visit Affected People After Deadly Stampede

July 4, 2024, 1:39 pm

Rahul Gandhi, Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, intends to visit Hathras to meet with those affected by the tragic stampede that claimed 123 lives during a religious event on Tuesday, as confirmed by Congress general secretary KC Venugopal.

“It was an unfortunate incident. Rahul Gandhi, Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, plans to visit Hathras. He will go there and interact with the affected people,” Venugopal stated.

Meanwhile, RJD leader Manoj Jha criticized the inquiry panel established to investigate the stampede, dismissing it as superficial.

“How many committees are formed after such accidents? We all know this issue will be forgotten after two days. Our nation has become accident-prone… Wasn’t the local administration aware of the crowd? This is all just a cover-up,” Jha remarked.

According to local authorities, the stampede occurred during a religious gathering addressed by preacher Bhole Baba. The incident arose when followers sought to collect soil near his feet, causing overcrowding despite event organizers obtaining permission for 80,000 attendees. The turnout exceeded 2.5 lakh people.

Sheela Maurya, a constable with the Uttar Pradesh Police on duty at the venue, attributed the incident to overcrowding.

“I was stationed near the stage. After the event, a large crowd gathered. People began falling on each other. I assisted several women but eventually, I also fell and sustained injuries. The main issue was the massive crowd exiting simultaneously,” Maurya recounted.

Separately, Uttar Pradesh Police conducted a search at Ram Kutir Charitable Trust in Mainpuri, although Bhole Baba was not found on the premises of his ashram.

Organizers of the event have been named in an FIR, although Bhole Baba himself has not been accused. A three-member Judicial Inquiry Commission led by Justice (retd) Brijesh Kumar Srivastava has been appointed to ensure a thorough and transparent investigation, according to an official statement.

Hathras Stampede: UP Police Constable Sheela Maurya’s Heroic Actions Amid Chaos

July 4, 2024, 1:18 pm

In Hathras, Uttar Pradesh, a tragic stampede occurred during a religious event on July 2, 2024. The stampede took place after the event concluded, resulting in chaos and injuries among the attendees. Among the heroes of this incident is UP Police Constable Sheela Maurya, who was on security duty at the event.

“I was deputed in front of the stage,” Sheela Maurya recalls. “There was a huge crowd there after the event concluded. People started falling over each other. I helped many women but later even I fell and suffered injuries. The problem was that there was a huge crowd, and everyone started exiting the venue together. At the time, I was only trying to save people. The CM asked me about the incident yesterday.”

#WATCH | UP Police constable Sheela Maurya, who was on security duty at the Hathras religious event where the stampede occurred on July 2, narrates how the incident happened

“I was deputed in front of the stage. There was a huge crowd there after the event concluded. People… pic.twitter.com/nKVdBWD7Gk

— ANI UP/Uttarakhand (@ANINewsUP) July 4, 2024

Sheela’s brave actions during the stampede highlight her dedication and quick thinking. Despite the risk to her own safety, she prioritized helping others. Her account sheds light on the chaos and the need for better crowd management at large events.

The Hathras stampede serves as a grim reminder of the need for stringent safety protocols at large public gatherings. Effective crowd management, including the regulation of entry and exit points, and the presence of sufficient security personnel, can prevent such tragedies. Additionally, educating attendees on safety measures can help in managing large crowds more efficiently.

The Uttar Pradesh government and event organizers must work together to implement better safety measures for future events. Ensuring the safety of attendees is paramount, and learning from past incidents can help in creating a safer environment for all.

Hathras Stampede Tragedy: Bhole Baba’s Lawyer Denies ‘Charan Raj’ Claim | Key Points

July 4, 2024, 10:58 am

After the Hathras stampede, Bhole Baba’s lawyer asserted on Wednesday that the incident was orchestrated by anti-social elements, countering the claim that it resulted from devotees rushing to touch the preacher’s feet. The tragedy, which claimed 121 lives, mostly women, occurred a day earlier.

Key points regarding the Hathras tragedy include:

According to a preliminary government report, the stampede erupted as followers surged towards Bhole Baba to obtain “charan raj,” the soil around his feet. However, lawyer AP Singh contended that the stampede was the result of a conspiracy by anti-social elements.

He stated, “Some anti-social elements hatched a conspiracy… When Narayan Saakar Hari left the venue, his vehicles left, and our volunteers and followers failed to understand what was happening due to the conspiracy. This was done as per a plan and should be investigated.”

Singh emphasized that Bhole Baba never allowed his followers to touch his feet, dismissing the mention of “charan raj” as false and unsupported by any visual evidence. Although Bhole Baba was not named as an accused in the FIR registered by the police, he was reportedly absent from his ashram in Mainpuri, where the incident occurred.

DSP Sunil Kumar of Mainpuri clarified, “He (‘Bhole Baba’) is not inside, neither he was yesterday nor he is today.” As per the initial report, devotees attempted to approach Bhole Baba for blessings and soil, but were stopped by his security personnel. This led to a commotion in which people fell to the ground and others rushed towards a muddy field, resulting in fatal injuries.

The police have filed an FIR against Devprakash Madhukar, known as ‘Mukhya Sewadar,’ under several sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). He was identified as the main organizer of the religious event. Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel has constituted a three-member judicial commission, chaired by retired Allahabad High Court judge Brijesh Kumar Srivastava, to oversee an impartial investigation into the Hathras stampede. The commission aims to scrutinize all facets of the incident over the next two months to ensure transparency.

Autopsy Report Reveals Hathras Stampede Deaths: What Were The Leading Causes?

July 3, 2024, 11:16 pm

Autopsies conducted at the S N Medical College and Hospital in Agra have shed light on the tragic aftermath of the Hathras stampede, revealing that blood accumulation in the thoracic cavity, asphyxia, and rib injuries were among the leading causes of death for the victims. The stampede occurred during a ‘Satsang’ organized by religious preacher Suraj Pal, known as Bhole Baba, near GT Road in the Phulrai Mugalgarhi village of Hathras district on July 2, claiming 121 lives.

According to Chief Medical Officer Arun Srivastava, most of the deceased succumbed to chest injuries and asphyxiation. The victims hailed from various districts including Mathura, Agra, Pilibhit, Kasganj, and Aligarh, and their bodies were brought to the hospital in Agra for post-mortem examination.

Eyewitness accounts described chaotic scenes following the conclusion of the religious congregation, as devotees rushed towards Bhole Baba’s vehicle for blessings and charan dhul (dust of his feet). Gopal Kumar, an eyewitness, recounted how the rush towards the highway led to a tragic chain of events, with many falling and being trampled upon as others surged forward.

In response to the incident, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has ordered a judicial inquiry, emphasizing that it will also probe the possibility of any conspiracy behind the stampede. The police have filed a First Information Report (FIR) against the event organizers, alleging overcrowding far beyond the permitted capacity of 80,000, with an estimated 2.5 lakh people present at the venue.

The Hathras stampede has sparked widespread grief and calls for accountability, with authorities focusing on understanding the sequence of events that led to the devastating loss of lives. Investigations are ongoing to determine culpability and prevent similar tragedies in the future.

The community and families of the victims continue to mourn as the region grapples with the aftermath of one of the deadliest stampedes in recent memory.

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.

“Organisers Attempted To Cover Up The Incident”: CM Yogi On Hathras Stampede

July 3, 2024, 5:56 pm

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath stated that those behind the ‘prayer meet’ organized by godman Bhole Baba in Hathras, Uttar Pradesh, “tried to cover up the incident” following his visit to the scene. The event resulted in a stampede that claimed the lives of over a hundred people. “This will not happen again… there will be SOPs we will ensure that,” he said.

The Chief Minister announced that various apparent failures, including permission issues and a possible lack of crowd management and safety measures, had already been reported to a high-level judicial commission that will be chaired by a retired High Court judge. “The culprits won’t be spared” Yogi said.

At least 121 people were killed in this incident including children. Six devotees from the dead were from Haryana, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh and rest were from different places of Uttar Pradesh.

“I talked to a few witnesses, and they told me that when women sought to touch the godman’s feet during the ‘satsang,’ a wave of people pressed forward, and security pushed back. Then they made an effort to hide the problem,” he remarked.

No arrests have been made by police so far.

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.

Russian President Putin Offers Condolences To India Over Hathras Stampede

July 3, 2024, 5:26 pm

Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed his condolences to President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi regarding the tragic Hathras stampede incident in Uttar Pradesh, which claimed the lives of 121 people.

“Please accept my heartfelt condolences over the tragic accident in Uttar Pradesh. Please convey words of sympathy and support to the families of the deceased and wishes for the swift recovery of all injured,” the message stated.

The stampede occurred on Tuesday at a ‘Satsang’ religious event organized by Bhole Baba in Rati Bhanpur village, Sikandra Rau area of Hathras district. According to police, factors such as overcrowding, inadequate exits, adverse weather conditions, and other issues likely contributed to the high casualty count.

Injured victims, currently hospitalized, recounted that the stampede occurred after the event concluded when attendees rushed towards Bhole Baba as he descended from the stage. Many slipped on muddy ground while trying to exit, resulting in fatal crushes, as reported by authorities.

On Wednesday, Uttar Pradesh police filed an FIR against the event organizers, alleging evidence concealment and violation of conditions, as 2.5 lakh people gathered despite permission for only 80,000. However, Bhole Baba was not named in the FIR.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath announced a judicial probe into the incident, stating, “We have formed an SIT, led by ADG Agra, which has submitted a preliminary report. They have been instructed to conduct a thorough investigation as several aspects need examination.”

Watch | UP CM Yogi Adityanath Inspects Hathras Stampede Site

July 3, 2024, 1:54 pm

Yesterday, a tragic Hathras stampede occurred in Uttar Pradesh, causing panic and loss. Today, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath visited the site to assess the situation and meet with officials.

#WATCH | Hathras Stampede accident | UP CM Yogi Adityanath reaches and inspects the accident spot where the stampede took place yesterday pic.twitter.com/I5hAxtP0dQ

— ANI (@ANI) July 3, 2024

The stampede took place during a large public gathering, resulting in several injuries and a few fatalities. Upon reaching the site, CM Yogi Adityanath expressed his deep condolences to the families of the victims and ensured that the injured receive the best medical care.

Hathras Stampede: CM Yogi Adityanath Visits ‘Satsang’ Tragedy Victims

July 3, 2024, 12:04 pm

Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath visited the Hathras government hospital to inquire about the condition of those injured in the stampede incident.

#WATCH | Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath meets and inquires about the health of the persons injured in the stampede incident, at Hathras government hospital pic.twitter.com/HW5u4q4ziv

— ANI (@ANI) July 3, 2024

Yogi Adityanath, the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, traveled to Hathras on Wednesday in response to the stampede at a religious gathering that resulted in the loss of 121 lives on Tuesday. Earlier, the state government had announced compensation of Rs. 2 lakh for the families of those who lost their lives in the incident.

An FIR was filed by Uttar Pradesh Police on Wednesday at Sikandra Rau police station concerning the tragic death of 121 individuals during a religious event in Hathras district on Tuesday. Notably, the FIR does not include Bhole Baba, the organizer of the ‘Satsang’ that precipitated the stampede.

Police Probe Into Hathras Stampede Finds Serious Lapse

July 3, 2024, 11:54 am

Several flaws were discovered in the way the entire religious celebration in Hathras was planned, resulting in the terrible stampede that killed 121 people and injured several others on Tuesday. From no entry-exit points to a lack of emergency routes, Uttar Pradesh Police sources have identified serious blunders that contributed to the disaster, even as VVIP arrangements were made for religious preacher ‘Bhole Baba’.

According to the permission and the norms a gathering of 80,000 people should have different entry-exit points which was not followed at this event, even there were no entry exits found. At such a large gathering there was no medical team at the spot nor there were enough fans amid such hot and humid weather.

Also there was no barricading near the cavalcade of Baba because of which started running trying to get close to Baba.

According to police sources, the organisers failed to disclose the specific facts in their request for approval from the administration. According to insiders, the investigations thus far have revealed extreme carelessness in the manner in which approvals were granted by both the administration and the organisers.

A search operation was carried out at Ram Kutir Charitable Trust in Mainpuri district to find Baba Narayan Hari, also known as Saakar Vishwa Hari Bhole Baba. ‘We were unable to locate Baba ji on campus. He’s not here.’ Deputy Superintendent of Police Sunil Kumar said.

PM Modi Announces Financial Aid For Hathras Stampede Victims

July 3, 2024, 11:14 am

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic Hathras Stampede incident. He announced financial help for the families of those who died and those who were injured.

Prime Minister Modi declared an ex-gratia payment of Rs 2 lakh for the families of each person who lost their life and Rs 50,000 for those injured in the Hathras stampede. This aid will come from the Prime Minister National Relief Fund (PMNRF).

The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) shared this news on social media. They posted: “The Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi Ji has announced an ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF for the next of kin of each deceased in the mishap in Hathras. The injured would be given Rs. 50,000.”

The Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi Ji has announced an ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF for the next of kin of each deceased in the mishap in Hathras. The injured would be given Rs. 50,000.

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) July 2, 2024

Additionally, Prime Minister Modi spoke with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, assuring that the government would provide timely assistance to the victims. Senior officials revealed that the deceased included 23 women, three children, and one man. Those who were either deceased or unconscious were taken to medical facilities in Sikandara Rao for further care.

Hathras MP Anoop Pradhan, commented outside Parliament, describing the incident as extremely unfortunate. “I have spoken with our district officer, the district’s legislator, and the superintendent of police. While the exact number is not yet confirmed, many people have tragically died, and many others are injured. They are receiving treatment in nearby hospitals,” Pradhan said.

Hathras Tragedy: 121 Killed In Stampede, FIR Registered Against Organisers

July 3, 2024, 9:59 am

In a tragic turn of events, the death toll from a stampede at a religious congregation organized by self-styled godman Narayan Sakar Hari in Fulrai village has risen to 121, as confirmed by a senior official on July 3rd. The incident, which occurred during a ‘satsang’ attended by over one lakh people, primarily women, also left 28 individuals injured.

According to the Office of the Relief Commissioner, 19 of the deceased remain unidentified. The Uttar Pradesh Police have taken action by filing an FIR against the event’s organizers, alleging that they attempted to conceal evidence of the stampede by discarding victims’ belongings in nearby fields with standing crops.

The FIR, lodged under sections including BNS-105, 110, 126, 223, and 238, names organizer Devprakash Mathur, while Narayan Sakar Hari, who is reportedly absconding, has not been directly implicated.

In response to the tragedy, the district administration has set up helplines (05722227041 and 05722227042) to assist the public. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances leading to the stampede, which has sent shockwaves through the community and beyond.

Hathras Tragedy 116 Killed

July 2, 2024, 11:47 pm

At least 116 individuals lost their lives and numerous others were injured in a stampede on Tuesday evening during a religious event in Uttar Pradesh’s Hathras district. The tragedy unfolded when a large crowd gathered in a village for a sermon by the renowned preacher Narayan Saakar Hari, also known as ‘Bhole Baba’.

“The attendees were exiting the venue when a dust storm blinded their vision, leading to a melee and the subsequent tragic incident,” said Chaitra V., divisional commissioner of Aligarh city in Uttar Pradesh state, told AFP.

A witness, however, stated that the stampede occurred when followers of Bhole Baba rushed to collect “raj” (dust) from the path where the preacher’s vehicle had traveled while leaving the venue.

The incident resulted in numerous casualties from being crushed or trampled, with some falling into a roadside drain. Ambulances quickly transported the injured to hospitals, while outside a mortuary in Etah, distraught women and men anxiously awaited updates on their loved ones.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath conveyed his sympathies and instructed district authorities to prioritize medical care for the injured and expedite relief operations at the scene.

Tragically, fatal incidents during religious gatherings are frequent in India, typically attributed to inadequate crowd control and safety oversights. For instance, in 2016, 112 individuals lost their lives in Kerala when a banned fireworks display triggered a massive explosion at a temple. Similarly, in 2013, a stampede near a temple bridge in Madhya Pradesh claimed 115 lives. Another significant incident occurred in 2008 at a hilltop temple in Jodhpur, where 224 pilgrims died and more than 400 were injured in a stampede.

Major stampedes in India over the years, most of them occurred during religious gatherings

January 2005: More than 340 devotees were fatally trampled and hundreds injured during an annual pilgrimage at Maharashtra’s Satara district’s Mandhardevi temple. The stampede was triggered by slippery steps leading to the temple.

August 2008: Approximately 145 Hindu pilgrims lost their lives following a stampede at Himachal Pradesh’s mountaintop Naina Devi temple, reportedly sparked by rumors of a landslide.

September 2008: During the Navratri festival in Rajasthan, a tragic stampede at the Chamunda Devi temple in Jodhpur city resulted in the deaths of 224 individuals. The incident was reportedly caused by rumors circulating about a bomb detonation at the temple.

March 2010: A stampede at a Hindu temple in Uttar Pradesh, prompted by a frenzied rush for free food and clothes offered by a self-proclaimed spiritual leader, resulted in the deaths of at least 63 people, with over half of them being children.

January 2011: A tragic incident at Pulmedu in Kerala’s Idukki district resulted in the deaths of at least 104 Sabarimala devotees and left over 40 others injured. The stampede occurred when a jeep collided with pilgrims returning home.

November 2011: At least 20 fatalities occurred in a stampede at Har-ki-Pauri ghat in Haridwar, situated on the banks of the Ganga river.

February 2013: At least 36 Hindu pilgrims lost their lives in a stampede on the busiest day of the Kumbh Mela, a massive gathering in Uttar Pradesh that attracts over 100 million pilgrims across two months.

November 2013: Approximately 115 individuals perished and over a hundred were injured in a stampede at the Ratangarh temple in Madhya Pradesh during Navratri celebrations.

January 2022: At least 12 fatalities occurred and numerous others were injured in a stampede at the Vaishno Devi shrine in Jammu and Kashmir, triggered by a large crowd of devotees attempting to enter the narrow shrine.

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.

UP Hathras Stampede: Dimple Yadav Demands ‘Strict Action’, Blames Administration

July 2, 2024, 8:22 pm

In the wake of the tragic stampede at a religious gathering in Hathras, Uttar Pradesh, which resulted in the deaths of over 80 people and left many others injured, Samajwadi Party MP Dimple Yadav has called for stringent action and immediate aid for the victims. The incident occurred during a satsang conducted by the self-styled godman Narayan Sakaar Hari, also known as Bhole Baba.

Expressing her concerns, Dimple Yadav stated, “The Uttar Pradesh government must take the strictest action in response to this tragedy. Immediate help should be provided to those injured. There needs to be a thorough investigation into the cause of the stampede and why this accident happened. The responsibility for this incident lies entirely with the administration.”

#WATCH | On the Hathras stampede incident, Samajwadi Party MP Dimple Yadav says “…The Uttar Pradesh government should take the strictest action against this and the injured should be provided immediate help. There should be an investigation into this as to why this accident… pic.twitter.com/Spm3OZWAHt

— ANI (@ANI) July 2, 2024

Yadav further emphasized the importance of preparedness, noting, “It was the responsibility of both the government and the administration to ensure safety measures were in place. An ambulance should have been present at the site.”

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has already directed officials to promptly reach the location and oversee relief efforts. As the state grapples with the aftermath of the Hathras Stampede, calls for accountability and improved safety protocols at large gatherings are growing louder.

Hathras Stampede: Leaders Pay Condolences As Death Toll Croses 100

July 2, 2024, 7:43 pm

A stampede in Hathras, Uttar Pradesh, on Tuesday, killed at least 107, including 3 children people. The bodies have been sent to Etah Medical College, and the injured have been taken to Sikandrarau Trauma Centre. Senior Superintendent of Police, Etah, Rajesh Kumar Singh said the incident occurred at a ‘satsang’ in Pulrai village where people had gathered in large numbers.

In the aftermath of the incident, UP CM Yogi Adityanath and Defense Minister Rajnath Singh expressed their condolences for the deaths of devotees in Hathras following a stampede at the end of a Satsang at the district Sikandrarau.

In a post on X, CM Yogi said, “The loss of lives in the unfortunate accident in Hathras district is extremely sad and heartbreaking. My condolences to the bereaved family.” Giving details of the relief and rescue operation, CM Yogi said, “Instructions have been given to the concerned officials to conduct relief and rescue operations on a war footing and to provide proper treatment to the injured.”

He also stated Minister of Uttar Pradesh Government, Shri Laxmi Narayan Chaudhary Ji, Shri Sandeep Singh Ji have left for the incident site and have directed the Chief Secretary and Director General of Police of the state to reach the incident site. In addition, a team has been formed under the leadership of ADG, Agra and Commissioner, Aligarh and instructions have also been given to investigate the causes of the accident.

In a separate post on X, Union Defense Minister Rajnath Singh, “The incident that happened in Hathras district of Uttar Pradesh is extremely painful. My deepest condolences to the bereaved families of those who have lost their loved ones in this. I wish for the speedy recovery of all the injured. Under the supervision of the state government, the local administration is providing all possible help to all the victims.”

Meanwhile, Congress MP Rahul Gandhi said, “The news of the death of many devotees due to the stampede during the satsang in Hathras, Uttar Pradesh is extremely painful. I express my deepest condolences to all the bereaved families and hope for the speedy recovery of the injured. The government and administration are requested to provide every possible treatment to the injured and relief to the affected families. All workers of India are requested to provide their cooperation in relief and rescue.

Former UP CM Mayawati also expressed condolences, saying, “It is very sad that a large number of people died and many were injured in a stampede, during a religious gathering in Hathras district of UP and a young man was killed during a Buddhist/Bhim Katha in Agra. The government should investigate these incidents and take appropriate action and provide financial assistance to the victim families.”