By D. Maan, Jadetimes News
Tragic Crush at Religious Gathering in Uttar Pradesh
A tragic incident at a Hindu religious festival in Uttar Pradesh's Hathras district has claimed the lives of 121 people, making it one of the deadliest disasters of its kind in over a decade. The event, a satsang organized by self styled godman Bhole Baba, turned disastrous as chaos erupted due to massive overcrowding.
vercrowded Event Turns Fatal
The satsang, which had a permitted limit of 80,000 attendees, saw an overwhelming turnout of approximately 250,000 people according to police reports. As the event concluded and Bhole Baba prepared to depart, thousands of devotees rushed towards his vehicle, resulting in a chaotic stampede.
Legal Actions and Public Outcry
Authorities have registered a case against the event organizers, including the main organizer, on charges including culpable homicide. The tragedy has sparked widespread outrage and raised concerns about safety lapses at such gatherings.
Scenes of Distress and Grieving Families
Distressing images and videos from the scene circulated online, depicting injured individuals being rushed to hospitals in makeshift vehicles. Families were seen outside local hospitals, desperately searching for their loved ones among the casualties.
The Self Styled Godman and His Followers
Bhole Baba, originally named Suraj Pal and known as Narayan Sakar Vishwa Hari among his followers, hails from Bahadurpur village in Kasganj district. He has a significant following in Hathras and neighboring areas, often drawing large crowds to his sermons.
Search for Accountability and Justice
Following the incident, authorities are searching for Bhole Baba, who is believed to be hiding in his ashram in Mainpuri. Police aim to question him regarding the organization of the event and the circumstances that led to the tragic crush.
This disaster has not only highlighted safety concerns at religious gatherings but has also prompted calls for accountability and justice from the affected families and the public.