Devotees Fatality at Hathras Satsang: A Closer Look

Self-styled godman Surajpal, known as Bhole Baba, returned to his ashram in Bahadur Nagar village, Kasganj, following a fatal stampede at a satsang he hosted in Hathras. The July 2 incident led to 121 deaths, and a Special Investigation Team (SIT) along with a judicial commission, have been formed to probe the event.

Bhole Baba's lawyer, A P Singh, stated that he will remain at his birthplace ashram and no charges have been filed against him. The SIT's preliminary report indicated possible conspiracy and administrative lapses, holding organizers accountable for the chaos due to inadequate arrangements for crowd control.

The police have arrested nine individuals, including key accused Devprakash Madhukar, who organized and funded the event, where the turnout significantly exceeded the permitted limit, contributing to the disaster.

(With inputs from agencies.)