8 pilgrims killed in stampede

Guna (MP), Mar 27 (UNI) Eight pilgrims were killed on the spot and at least 12 others injured in a stampede at a temple at Kareela in adjoining Ashoknagar district last night, police said.

The injured were being treated at the government hospital at Ashoknagar, while two seriously injured, hailing from Baran(Rajasthan), were brought here.

Of the deceased, six had been identified and one of them, Kanhaiyalal, hailed from state capital Bhopal, police added.

The stampede occurred after a portion of the railing erected to control the mob broke down as the pilgrims tried to climb on it, police said, adding there was heavy rush of pilgrims at the Sita Devi temple. A mela was organised there on the occasion of Rangpanchami.

Traditional 'Rai' dance by 'Bednis' was in progress when the stampede took place.

Pilgrims from Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh, besides Madhya Pradesh attend the fair every year.

UNI XC-SP SP HT1257