A tragic stampede occurred at a religious gathering in northern India’s Uttar Pradesh state on Tuesday, leaving 121 people dead and many more injured.
The incident happened during a prayer meeting and sermon organized by a local guru in a tent off a highway in Hathras district.
Eyewitness Accounts
Eyewitnesses reported that the crowd suddenly rushed out of the venue as the guru departed, resulting in chaos and panic. Many attendees slipped and fell into a ditch filled with mud and water, causing suffocation and trampling.
Official Response
Uttar Pradesh Education Minister Sandeep Singh confirmed the death toll and announced that an investigation has been launched. “The probe has started, and whoever is found responsible will be punished,” he assured.
Victims
The stampede claimed the lives of over 100 women and at least seven children, with many more injured. The incident highlights the importance of crowd control and safety measures at large gatherings.
Investigation Underway
The Uttar Pradesh government has ordered a judicial probe into the incident, and a high-level committee has been formed to investigate the stampede. The committee will be headed by a retired judge and include two other members, a former IPS officer and a former district magistrate.
Reactions
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences and promised to help the injured. Opposition leaders have criticized the state government for inadequate arrangements and lack of preparedness, leading to the tragic incident.
