Hathras Stampede: A tragic incident occurred at a satsang organized by the saint Narayan Sakar Hari, popularly known as Bhole Baba, resulting in the deaths of 27 people. The stampede took place on the Hathras-Etah border in Uttar Pradesh during a religious gathering attended by a large number of devotees.
Who is Bhole Baba?
Bhole Baba, whose full name is Narayan Sakar Hari, is a revered saint in West Uttar Pradesh. Known for his unique style, he often dons a three-piece suit and preaches to his followers about renouncing worldly illusions to achieve spiritual enlightenment. His satsangs are widely attended and held with police permission across various districts in the region.
The Stampede Incident
On Tuesday, during one of Bhole Baba’s satsangs, a stampede broke out, leading to the deaths of 27 individuals. The deceased include 25 women and 2 children, with many more injured, including a significant number of elderly people. The chaotic situation arose due to extreme humidity and heat inside the pandal, causing panic and a subsequent rush to exit.
Immediate Aftermath and Response
The Chief Medical Officer of Etah has confirmed the fatalities, and the condition of several injured persons remains critical. The death toll could potentially rise as more information becomes available. The Uttar Pradesh government has reacted swiftly to the disaster.
Government Action and Investigation
A special investigation committee has been formed to probe the incident, led by ADG Agra and Commissioner Aligarh. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has expressed his condolences to the bereaved families and wished for the speedy recovery of the injured. He has instructed the district administration to ensure immediate medical treatment for the injured and provide necessary relief measures.
CM Adityanath has also ordered a thorough investigation to determine the causes of the stampede. The inquiry will be conducted under the leadership of the ADG Agra and Commissioner Aligarh, who will work to uncover the factors that led to this tragic event.
Connections and Influence
Narayan Sakar Hari, or Bhole Baba, is not only a spiritual leader but also a figure with significant political connections. He has been seen in the company of various prominent leaders, including Akhilesh Yadav, the President of the Samajwadi Party.
The stampede at Bhole Baba’s satsang is a stark reminder of the need for better crowd management and safety measures at large gatherings. As the investigation progresses, the authorities aim to identify the lapses that led to this catastrophe and prevent such incidents in the future. The loss of 27 lives in this tragic event has cast a shadow of grief over the community, with many mourning the sudden and preventable loss of their loved ones.
