Tragedy in Hathras: A tragic incident unfolded in Hathras, Uttar Pradesh, where 107 people lost their lives in a stampede at a ‘satsang’ (religious gathering) on Tuesday. The unfortunate event included several women and children among the deceased. The victims were rushed to hospitals in Hathras and the neighboring Etah district for medical attention.
Details of the Incident
Chaitra V, the Commissioner of Aligarh, confirmed the devastating toll, stating that 27 of the deaths were reported from Etah district. Additionally, around 18 people sustained injuries during the chaos. Rajesh Kumar Singh, a senior police officer, informed the media that the stampede occurred during a satsang organized by the Manav Mangal Milan Sadbhavna Samagam Committee, for self-styled godman Narayan Sakar Hari, also known as Sakar Vishwa Hari or Bhole Baba.
Eyewitness Accounts
Eyewitnesses recalled the horrifying moments. One person mentioned, “We had come for the satsang. It was a large crowd. Once the satsang ended, we started leaving. The exit was narrow. As we tried to exit towards the field, suddenly, a commotion started, and we didn’t know what to do. Many people have died.” Another added, “After the satsang ended, everyone came out. Outside, the road was built at a height with a drain below. One after the other, people started falling into it. Some people got crushed.”
Official Responses and Condolences
Leaders’ Reactions
President Droupadi Murmu expressed her sorrow, stating, “The news of the death of many devotees, including women and children, in the accident in Hathras district of Uttar Pradesh is heart-rending. I express my deepest condolences to those who lost their family members and pray for the speedy recovery of those injured.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the Lok Sabha, saying, “I am receiving news of a tragic death in Hathras. I express my condolences to those who have lost their lives and wish for the injured to recover soon. The state government is engaged in rescue operations. The central government is in contact. All possible help will be provided to the victims.”
Union Home Minister Amit Shah shared his grief on X, stating, “I am deeply saddened by the tragic accident in Hathras, Uttar Pradesh. I express my condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in this accident. May God give them strength to bear this pain. The local administration is engaged in relief work. I wish for the speedy recovery of the injured.”
State Government’s Response
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath directed officials to expedite relief work and ensure proper treatment for the injured. He dispatched the Director General of Police, two senior ministers, and the Chief Secretary to the site.
UP Minister Sandeep Singh commented, “We have been instructed by the CM to reach the Hathras incident site and look into the matter and take the required decisions on behalf of the government. The number of deceased is continuously increasing.”
The Chief Minister announced financial assistance of Rs 2 lakh for the families of the deceased and Rs 50 thousand for the injured. He will visit Hathras to assess the situation and meet the victims’ families. Accompanied by the Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister, Sanjay Prasad, Adityanath will oversee the incident site.
Investigation
A team consisting of the additional director general of police Agra and the Aligarh Commissioner has been formed to investigate the cause of the incident. Hathras MP Anoop Pradhan also stated his intent to visit the site, saying, “I am going to the spot. I just spoke to the district magistrate. Many people have died.”
Helpline Numbers
In the wake of the incident, the district administration has issued helplines: 05722227041 and 05722227042 for assistance and inquiries.
This tragedy has left the community in mourning, as authorities continue their efforts to provide relief and support to the affected families.
For more information related to finance, please click on this link. To stay connected with us, follow our WhatsApp Channel.
