Faith Endures Amid Tragedy: Bhole Baba Stands by SIT Investigation Post Hathras Stampede

Surajpal, also known as Bhole Baba, expresses confidence in the SIT and judicial commission to uncover the truth about the tragic Hathras stampede that claimed 121 lives. The Supreme Court rejected a PIL for a higher-level inquiry, directing the petitioner to the High Court instead.

Surajpal, also known as Bhole Baba, who conducted a 'Satsang' in Hathras where a deadly stampede led to the deaths of 121 people, has declared his faith in the Special Investigation Team (SIT) and judiciary to uncover the truth. 'I am extremely sad after the incident of July 2, but who can stop what's bound to happen?' Surajpal told ANI.

On July 12, the Supreme Court declined to entertain a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) seeking the formation of a five-member expert committee under a retired top court judge to investigate the incident. Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud noted that although it was a tragic event, the High Court would be able to handle the case.

'Everything does not have to come to the Supreme Court under Article 32. You can approach the High Court. They are robust courts. Of course, this is a disturbing incident,' Chandrachud stated. The petition had urged the court to direct the Uttar Pradesh government to submit a status report and initiate legal action against those responsible for the stampede. It also sought broader guidelines to prevent such tragedies at large public gatherings in the future.

The stampede during the 'satsang' organized by Bhole Baba, whose real name is Narayan Saakar Hari, resulted in the deaths of more than 100 people, including women and children. The event drew over two lakh attendees, far exceeding the permitted capacity of 80,000, as per reports (ANI).

(With inputs from agencies.)