Stampede at spiritual gathering in northern India: many injured hospitalized
by Aditi VermaA tragic stampede during a spiritual gathering in northern India’s Uttar Pradesh has led to multiple deaths and left 15 women and children injured. The injured have been admitted to Etah Medical College for treatment.
The incident took place in Ratibhanpur village in Hathras district on July 2.
Visuals showed after the stampede all the injured and deceased individuals were placed outside and inside the hospital premises because of limited space inside and a large number of bodies. Medical personnel were attending to the injured, while their family members were also present, visibly distressed and anxious about their well-being.
The incident occurred during a spiritual discourse dedicated to Lord Shiva (referred to as “Bhole Baba”). As the event was concluding, chaos erupted, causing a stampede. Preliminary reports suggest several fatalities and numerous injuries among attendees.
Eyewitnesses reported that the stampede happened suddenly, creating panic and confusion among the large gathering of devotees. Authorities rushed to the scene and immediately transported the injured to the nearby Etah Medical College for urgent medical care.
In addition to the fatalities and injuries caused by the stampede, hundreds of devotees also fell unconscious due to the extreme heat at the event.
Police and administrative officials responded swiftly to the distress call, providing first aid and transporting critically injured individuals to medical facilities. The exact number of casualties is yet to be confirmed, and an investigation is underway to ascertain the cause of the stampede and ensure accountability.
The tragic event has cast a pall over the community, as family members and friends await news of their loved ones. The local administration has vowed to provide all necessary support to the victims and their families during this difficult time.