This horrific incident that has shaken the entire nation occurred when devotees rushed to take blessings and touch the feet of Narayan Sakar Vishw Hari (Bhole Baba) after his satsang. The overwhelming majority of the deceased are women. This tragedy is the second largest in the state since the stampede at the Prayagraj Maha Kumbh in 1954. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath announced the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to determine the cause of the stampede that led to the deaths of 121 devotees returning from the satsang in Sikandararao’s Fulari. The investigation aims to uncover whether this was an accident or a deliberate conspiracy. The probe will involve a retired judge from the High Court and other senior officials. Eyewitness accounts from survivors of the incident have also been collected for the investigation.

The Chief Minister emphasized that a thorough investigation would be conducted to ensure justice for the victims and their families. He also announced immediate relief measures for the affected families and promised strict action against anyone found responsible for the tragedy. The incident has prompted a state-wide review of safety measures at large gatherings to prevent such occurrences in the future. This tragic event underscores the need for better crowd management and safety protocols during large gatherings, particularly religious events that draw massive crowds. The state government is now focusing on implementing stricter regulations and ensuring that adequate safety measures are in place to protect the lives of devotees and attendees at such events.

The aftermath of the Hathras incident has left families grieving and communities in shock. As the investigation proceeds, there is a growing demand for accountability and preventive measures to avoid such disasters in the future. The government’s response and the results of the investigation will be crucial in restoring public confidence and ensuring that the safety of people is prioritized during large public gatherings. The tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the importance of crowd control and the need for authorities to be vigilant in managing large events. The lessons learned from this incident will hopefully lead to improved safety standards and prevent future tragedies, ensuring that such a devastating loss of life does not occur again.

By Neelam Singh.