Overcrowding Identified as Major Cause Behind Hathras Stampede

Uttar Pradesh Chief Secretary Manoj Kumar Singh stated that overcrowding was a key factor in the stampede at a religious event in Phulrai village, which resulted in at least 116 fatalities. Devotees were chasing the vehicle of Baba Narayan Hari, also known as Saakar Vishwa Hari Bhole Baba, after the satsang on Tuesday. Some attendees bent down to collect soil from the venue and fell, contributing to the chaos, Singh explained.

The chief secretary visited the stampede site with Uttar Pradesh Director General of Police (DGP) Prashant Kumar. "This incident is very sad and heart-wrenching. The chief minister is monitoring each and every development. Our first priority is to ensure that the injured get proper treatment," Singh told reporters.

Overcrowding and Organisational Lapses

Singh mentioned that the application submitted by the event organisers estimated 80,000 attendees, but the actual number was much higher. "There has been a lapse on the part of the event organisers," he said. Most of those killed were women, with seven children and one man among the deceased. Singh added that 72 victims have been identified and their bodies will be handed over to their families.

DGP Kumar informed reporters that permission for the satsang was granted by the sub-divisional magistrate (SDM). An investigation is underway to determine if all conditions were met by the organisers. "An FIR is being registered and action will be taken against all culprits," he said.

Investigation and Accountability

Kumar stated that any administrative lapses would be thoroughly investigated by the ADG Agra Zone and divisional commissioner of Aligarh. The government will act based on their report, expected within 24 hours. When asked about Bhole Baba's potential arrest, Kumar replied, "The ambit of the investigation is open. Right now, everything is a matter of investigation. We do not want to influence the investigation by drawing any immediate conclusion."

Police personnel were deployed in significant numbers for the programme. Efforts will be made to ensure such incidents are not repeated in future, Singh added.

Singh reiterated that overcrowding was a significant cause of the stampede. "There was a race among people who were running after Bhole Baba's vehicle. It has also been learnt that people collect soil from where Baba walked and worship it. As a result, people started bending down and fell," he said.

The chief secretary emphasised that ensuring proper treatment for the injured remains a top priority for authorities. The chief minister is closely monitoring developments related to this tragic incident.

The investigation aims to uncover all facts surrounding this tragedy and hold those responsible accountable based on findings.