India Sastang stampede: Death toll rises to 122
A sudden dust storm triggered panic as people began to leave, resulting in chaos where many were crushed or trampled, with some falling into a roadside drain.
KATHMANDU: In a devastating incident, over 100 people were killed and more than a dozen injured during a stampede at a Hindu religious gathering in Hathras district, Uttar Pradesh, about 200km southeast of New Delhi. The tragedy unfolded as a large crowd attended a sermon by preacher Bhole Baba on Tuesday.
A sudden dust storm triggered panic as people began to leave, resulting in chaos where many were crushed or trampled, with some falling into a roadside drain.
Police confirmed the death toll at 122, with most victims being women and children. At least 18 people were injured and admitted to hospitals. Initial reports indicate that more than 15,000 people were present, despite the event’s permission for only 5,000 attendees.
Eyewitnesses described the stampede as happening quickly once the event ended, with people rushing to exit. Videos on social media, though unverified, showed bodies outside a local hospital. Overcrowding is believed to have been a significant factor in the tragedy.
State Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has ordered an investigation and instructed officials to conduct relief and rescue operations swiftly. Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced compensation for the victims’ families and wished for the injured’s speedy recovery. President Droupadi Murmu expressed her heartfelt condolences.
Deadly incidents at religious gatherings in India are not uncommon. Previous tragedies include a 2016 explosion at a temple in Kerala, which killed 112 people, and a 2013 stampede at a bridge near a temple in Madhya Pradesh, which resulted in 115 deaths.
