Tragic stampede at religious event in UP claims 87 lives

A devastating stampede at a religious event in Uttar Pradesh's Hathras has claimed the lives of at least 87 people, including women and children, officials reported on Tuesday.

The incident occurred during a 'satsang' (prayer meeting) in Pulrai village, drawing a large crowd.

Visuals from the Community Health Centre showed numerous bodies being transported in buses and tempos, accompanied by grieving relatives. The tragic event prompted immediate reactions from officials, including Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and President Droupadi Murmu, who both expressed condolences to the bereaved families. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also conveyed his sympathies during his address in the Lok Sabha.

The stampede resulted in a chaotic scene, with victims, both dead and unconscious, being brought to the Sikandara Rao Trauma Centre in trucks and other vehicles. Bodies were laid outside the health centre as distraught people gathered around them.

Senior Superintendent of Police, Etah, Rajesh Kumar Singh confirmed, "Twenty-seven bodies have arrived in Etah hospital. Among those killed are 23 women, three children, and a man." District officials later updated the toll, estimating 87 fatalities based on hospital reports.

Hathras District Magistrate Ashish Kumar stated that the district administration is actively investigating the incident. "The injured are being taken to the hospital and more people are being recovered. Doctors have reported nearly 50-60 deaths to me. The event was privately organized with permission from the SDM. A high-level committee has been formed to investigate the matter. Our primary focus is to provide all possible help to the injured and the families of the deceased."

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath expressed deep condolences and directed officials to provide immediate relief measures at the site. "UP CM Yogi Adityanath has expressed condolences to the families of those who died in the accident in Hathras district. He also wished for the speedy recovery of the injured and directed officials to expedite relief work. He instructed a thorough investigation under the leadership of ADG Agra and Commissioner Aligarh," his office posted on X.

Senior officials, including SSP Etah and Sikandara Rao police station SHO Ashish Kumar, indicated that the stampede was likely caused by overcrowding.

The district administration has set up two helpline numbers for public assistance in light of the tragedy. "In view of the accident, the district administration has issued helplines 05722227041 and 05722227042 for the help of the general public," the Hathras DM posted on X.