Hathras Stampede: SDM’s Preliminary Report Reveals Shocking Sequence of Events

Hathras (UP): A devastating stampede at a religious event in Uttar Pradesh’s Hathras on Tuesday resulted in 121 deaths, according to a preliminary report by the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) of Sikandra Rao.

The incident occurred during a ‘satsang’ (spiritual gathering) led by spiritual leader Narayan Sakaar Hari, also known as Bhole Baba.

The report indicates that over 2,00,000 attendees were present at the event. The stampede began as devotees rushed towards the leader’s vehicle upon his departure, eager to seek blessings and collect soil from around his feet. Security personnel’s attempts to control the surging crowd led to panic and chaos. Many fell on a slippery slope while trying to escape, resulting in fatal crushes as others trampled over those who had fallen.

The SDM, who had authorised the event, was present when the tragedy unfolded. An FIR has been filed at Sikandar Rau police station, naming event organiser Devprakash Madhukar and others as responsible parties.