NEW DELHI—A tragic incident took place at a Hindu religious gathering in northern India, resulting in the loss of at least 116 lives, many of whom were women and children. The stampede occurred in a village in Hathras district in Uttar Pradesh, around 200 km southeast of New Delhi, where a large crowd had gathered in hot afternoon temperatures.
The chaos unfolded as devotees started pushing towards the stage after the event to reach the preacher, causing a stampede, according to Yogi Adityanath, the chief minister of Uttar Pradesh. While the exact cause of the stampede remains unclear, authorities suggested that overcrowding and people trying to leave the venue may have contributed to the tragic incident.
Officials mentioned that some individuals may have lost their balance while seeking water due to the heat, leading to the stampede. A total of 18 individuals were injured and hospitalized as a result of the stampede.
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Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident and have pledged to take action against those responsible. It was also noted that the gathering may have exceeded the permitted capacity.
State police chief Prashant Kumar assured that any lapses by authorities will be thoroughly investigated, with actions taken based on the findings of the report, which is expected within 24 hours.
Footage captured by news agency ANI, in partnership with Reuters, showed the aftermath of the stampede with bodies being transported in trucks and laid out in vehicles. Personal belongings such as purses, bags, and mobile phones were scattered at the venue, waiting to be claimed by their owners.
Social media videos depicted a large crowd inside a tented area, listening to devotional music and reaching out to the religious leader on stage. The chaotic scene was described by witnesses, with one individual mentioning the confusion at the gate leading to the stampede.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences and announced government assistance to the affected families. A compensation of 200,000 rupees ($2,400) was offered to the families of the deceased and 50,000 rupees to the injured individuals.
($1 = 83.4470 Indian rupees)
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