National Commission for Women (NCW) chief Rekha Sharma visited Hathras on Wednesday to inspect the site of the tragic stampede that claimed the lives of 121 individuals. The stampede occurred during a Satsang organized by Suraj Pal, also known as Bhole Baba, in the Phulrai Mugalgarhi village near GT Road. Sharma expressed her concerns about the irregularities and mentioned that an FIR should be filed against the Guru for prohibiting photos and collecting phones to hinder evidence. She emphasized the importance of making women cognizant of such deceptive ‘godmen’.
Sharma highlighted the vulnerability of illiterate women who were more easily misled and stressed the need for awareness programs to educate them about such fraudulent practices. She called for a detailed report on the actions taken by the administration in response to the tragic incident. The stampede unfolded after a large gathering dispersed from the religious congregation led by Bhole Baba, resulting in chaos and casualties.
Eyewitnesses described the horrific scene as devotees rushed towards the Baba’s car for blessings, leading to a stampede that claimed many lives, predominantly women. The autopsies conducted at a government hospital in Agra revealed that the primary causes of death were attributed to chest injuries, asphyxia, and rib injuries. The Chief Medical Officer confirmed that blood accumulation in the thoracic cavity was a significant factor in the fatalities.
Following the calamitous event, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath ordered a judicial inquiry into the stampede. He announced the formation of an investigative panel led by a retired high court judge to delve into the incident and devise preventive measures for the future. Adityanath condemned the negligence of the organizers and sevadars, expressing his commitment to holding all responsible parties accountable for the tragedy.
The state government has initiated a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to conduct a comprehensive probe into the incident. Adityanath assured that justice would be served, and those found guilty would face consequences for their actions. The tragic stampede has prompted calls for stricter regulations and oversight to prevent similar mishaps in the future.
