Tragedy Strikes as Stampede Claims Over 100 Lives at Religious Gathering in Uttar Pradesh, India

More than 100 individuals, primarily women and children, met a tragic fate as a stampede occurred at a religious assembly in northern India, specifically in Uttar Pradesh. Chaos erupted after the gathering in Hathras concluded, where the audience exceeded three times the approved capacity. Authorities fear the death toll could escalate as numerous persons are still receiving medical treatment.

At least 116 casualties, predominantly women and children, have been reported following the stampede at the religious event in Hathras district of Uttar Pradesh, located approximately 200 km southeast of New Delhi. Medical official Umesh Tripathi disclosed that 25 of the deceased were women, with expectations for the death toll to rise.

The disaster unfolded when a crowd of devotees began pushing towards the stage after an interaction with a religious leader recognized as Bhole Baba, aiming to make contact with the preacher, as mentioned by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. Police officer Rajesh Singh implied that overcrowding might have contributed to the tragedy.

Outside a hospital in the town of Etah, a throng of hundreds had gathered, many waiting to identify their loved ones. Heart-wrenching scenes unfolded, with mourners grieving over the loss of their family members, including a father whose 13-year-old daughter perished. The father shared his anguish, indicating his wife and other daughters were yet unaware of the tragedy.

Distressing videos circulated on social media depict individuals transporting the deceased and injured to hospitals using various means like motorbikes, trucks, and rickshaws. Initial reports suggested that more than 15,000 attendees were present at the event, surpassing the approved limit of 5,000.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended condolences to the affected families and assured that the federal government was collaborating with state authorities to provide assistance. Uttar Pradesh‘s Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath termed the incident 'heart-wrenching' and highlighted ongoing investigations into the stampede.