In Uttar Pradesh’s district of Khathras, a religious event yesterday drew more than 250,000 people despite police only allowing 80,000 to gather. However, the event turned tragic when at least 121 people were crushed to death, including 108 women and seven children, with at least 28 others injured. The death toll is expected to rise as shocking documentation of the disaster has emerged.
The state’s head, Yogi Adityanath, has ordered an investigation into the incident and declared a state of emergency. Relief operations are underway to treat the injured. An official from the district stated that most of the victims were women and children who were unable to free themselves from the crowded congregation.
Reports suggest that the chaos ensued when Surajpal, also known as “Bula Baba,” left his car in a rush to escape from the crowd. This led to a stampede as worshipers rushed towards his vehicle. Some attendees fell into a nearby field of slush and mud and were trampled there. This tragic incident highlights the need for better crowd management and safety measures at religious gatherings.