HATHRAS: Amid the serene chants and spiritual fervour at a satsang in Hathras, Uttar Pradesh, tragedy struck with deadly force. Among those severely injured was Head Constable Sheela Maurya, a 50-year-old officer stationed in Hathras.
Recounting the harrowing events, she stated, “My duty was right in front of the stage. As soon as Baba’s satsang ended, a sudden rush towards him caused a stampede.”
The event, led by preacher Narayan Saakar Hari, known as “Bhole Baba,” turned into chaos as attendees rushed to leave after its conclusion. In the ensuing stampede, over 120 devotees lost their lives, and numerous others were injured, including police personnel on duty.
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Narrating the horrifying tale, Maurya shared, “Many women fell, and I managed to lift several of them, but in the midst of it, I also fell and was seriously injured.”
Responding to questions about police presence at the event, Sheela explained, “There was significant deployment of police personnel. Officers from all our stations were present. However, the crowd was overwhelming.”
Tragically, another police officer on emergency duty at Etah Medical College in Hathras succumbed to a heart attack after the aftermath of the stampede.
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The Uttar Pradesh government swiftly responded to the tragedy by announcing a compensation of ₹2 lakh for the families of each deceased victim. In addition, a three-member Judicial Inquiry Commission, chaired by Justice (Retd.) Brijesh Kumar Srivastava of the Allahabad High Court has been appointed to ensure a thorough and transparent investigation into the incident.
As investigations continue, survivors like Sheela Maurya and countless others are left grappling with physical injuries and emotional trauma.
