By D. Maan, Jadetimes News
Denial of Responsibility and Cooperation
Following the tragic incident at an overcrowded gathering led by Bhole Baba in India, where over 120 people were crushed to death, the preacher has denied any responsibility. His lawyer, AP Singh, attributed the crush to "anti social elements" and alleged a "criminal conspiracy" against his client, whose real name is Narayan Sakar Vishwa Hari. Singh emphasized that Bhole Baba is committed to fully cooperating with the police investigation into the incident.
Legal Response and Public Outcry
The incident occurred during a Hindu religious festival, known as satsang, in Hathras district, primarily attended by women and children. In response to the tragedy, police have arrested six individuals associated with the event's organizing committee. The incident has sparked widespread outrage across India, prompting scrutiny over the adequacy of security measures at such gatherings. Mr. Singh also refuted claims that security guards exacerbated the situation by pushing attendees seeking Bhole Baba's blessings, dismissing them as "totally false allegations."
Tragic Incident and Chaotic Aftermath
The recent crush at a religious gathering led by Bhole Baba in Pulrai village, India, has been described as one of the worst in years, resulting in shocking scenes of chaos. After the disaster, distressing images circulated online showing injured individuals being rushed to hospitals in pick up trucks, tuk tuks, and motorbikes. Initial reports indicated that while authorities had permitted a gathering of 80,000 people, the event drew an overwhelming crowd of approximately 250,000.
Eyewitnesses recounted the tragic sequence of events, stating that chaos ensued as the preacher departed the venue. As Bhole Baba's vehicle moved away, a surge of attendees rushed towards him, causing a stampede. Many lost their footing, leading to people falling and being crushed under the weight of the crowd. Survivors reported that some individuals fell into drains or were trampled as they attempted to get closer to the departing preacher's car.
Background and Controversies
Formerly known as Suraj Pal, Bhole Baba renamed himself Narayan Sakar Vishwa Hari and has garnered a substantial following across Hathras and neighboring districts, with an ashram located in Mainpuri, about 100km away from Pulrai village. Despite a past stint as a police constable and subsequent reinstatement after legal proceedings, controversies have surrounded him, including his involvement in this tragic incident. While not directly named in the initial police complaint, Bhole Baba's role in the gathering has sparked significant scrutiny and public outcry.
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