Tragic Stampede Claims 116 Lives at Religious Event in Uttar Pradesh

A tragic stampede at a religious congregation in Hathras, Uttar Pradesh, led to the death of 116 individuals, mostly women. The incident occurred after tens of thousands gathered for a 'satsang' by preacher Baba Narayan Hari Bhole Baba. Authorities are investigating the cause of the overcrowding and inadequate safety measures.

A tragic stampede at a religious congregation in Hathras, Uttar Pradesh, claimed 116 lives, mostly women. The incident occurred as a 'satsang' conducted by Baba Narayan Hari Bhole Baba ended. Eyewitnesses reported that devotees slipped in the slushy ground while running after the preacher's car, triggering the stampede.

Thousands of devotees had assembled in the Phulrai village for the event. Chaos ensued as people vied to get close to the preacher, leading to bodies being piled atop one another. Emergency responders found victims, dead or unconscious, brought to nearby hospitals in trucks and tempos. Overwhelmed, medical centers had bodies scattered outside their premises.

Authorities are probing the incident, highlighting inadequate safety measures for the massive crowd that far exceeded the expected 80,000 participants. The Uttar Pradesh administration, along with central government officials, is coordinating aid efforts. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Droupadi Murmu expressed their condolences. Compensation for the victims' families has been announced.