Stampede in Hathras After Satsang: 122 Dead, Over 150 Injured
Hathras, Uttar Pradesh 2 July 2024 ( Jobsoftoday)
A tragic incident unfolded in Hathras, Uttar Pradesh, on the 2nd of July, 2024, following a satsang by Bhole Baba, leading to a deadly stampede. The chaos erupted outside the Sikandrarao CHC (Community Health Center) where hundreds of devotees had gathered. According to Bhaskar reporter Manoj Maheshwari, who counted the bodies outside the hospital, the death toll has reached 122, with more than 150 individuals sustaining injuries.
Witnesses describe a scene of panic and confusion as the large crowd attempted to exit the satsang venue simultaneously. The narrow exit routes and lack of proper crowd management contributed to the catastrophe. In the ensuing chaos, many people were trampled, leading to the high number of casualties.
Among the deceased, a heart-wrenching incident involved a police officer who suffered a fatal heart attack upon witnessing the bodies. The condition of many of the injured remains critical, and it is feared that the death toll may rise further as medical teams struggle to provide care to the vast number of wounded.
Emergency services were quickly overwhelmed, with local hospitals struggling to accommodate the influx of patients. Additional medical teams and supplies were dispatched from neighboring districts to assist in the crisis.
This horrific event took place in a village 47 km from Hathras district, leaving the community in shock and mourning. Local authorities have initiated an investigation to determine the exact cause of the stampede and to assess the responsibility for the inadequate safety measures.
The state government has announced compensation for the families of the deceased and promised to cover medical expenses for the injured. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has expressed his condolences and assured that strict action will be taken against those found responsible for the mismanagement.
Community leaders and local politicians have also expressed their grief and called for better safety protocols at large gatherings to prevent such tragedies in the future. The incident has sparked a broader debate on crowd control and the need for more stringent regulations to ensure the safety of participants at religious and public events.
As the community comes to terms with the scale of the tragedy, support and solidarity have poured in from across the country. Efforts are underway to provide counseling and support to the bereaved families, and a memorial service is being planned to honor the victims of this devastating event.
