Jehanabad Temple Stampede Prompts Show-Cause Notices

Show-cause notices were issued to 50 officials, including police personnel, after a stampede in a Jehanabad temple resulted in seven deaths. Preliminary investigations indicate some officials were absent during the incident. Disciplinary actions are anticipated following the inquiry.

In the wake of a tragic stampede at Baba Siddheshwar Nath Temple in Bihar's Jehanabad district, 50 officials, including 43 police personnel, have been issued show-cause notices. The incident, which resulted in seven deaths and 16 injuries, occurred during the night between Sunday and Monday.

District Magistrate Alankrita Pandey revealed that seven administrative officials and 43 policemen are under scrutiny for their roles in the event. Preliminary reports indicated two officials were absent when they should have been present, and the rest are being held accountable for dereliction of duty. Disciplinary actions are expected post-investigation.

The district police have also declared the temple vicinity a 'vendor-free zone' following a clash between flower vendors and devotees, believed to have sparked the stampede. Additional security and a temporary medical facility have been deployed to ensure safety on the final Monday of Shravan, a day anticipated to attract a large crowd of devotees.

(With inputs from agencies.)