Lucknow: A devastating stampede at Bhole Baba’s satsang in Hathras, Uttar Pradesh, resulted in at least 122 fatalities, according to a Dainik Bhaskar report. The incident took place on Tuesday in Sikandra Rau Tehsil, leaving the community in utter shock and despair. Rajesh Kumar Singh, Senior Superintendent of Police, Etah, reported that 27 bodies have been received at the Etah Hospital, including 23 women, 3 children and one man. Many injured individuals are still being transported to medical facilities for treatment.
Compensation announced
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath have expressed their condolences and announced ex gratia of Rs. 2 lakhs each for the families of the deceased.
CM ordered the probe
CM Yogi has ordered an extensive probe into the tragedy, assembling a team that includes the General of Police and the Aligarh Police Commissioner to determine the root cause of the stampede. The Hathras District Administration has issued helpline numbers (05722227041 and 05722227042) to assist the public in the wake of the incident. Hathras DM Ashish Kumar emphasized the administration’s commitment to addressing the aftermath and providing support to those affected. The Agra Zone ADG, Anupama Kulshreshtha, has reached the district’s Community Health Centre to oversee the medical response.
Who is Bhole Baba?
The stampede occurred during a satsang organized by Bhole Baba, also known as Sakar Vishwahari, a revered spiritual leader with a significant following in Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh. The real name of Bhole Baba is Suraj Jatav. Bhole Baba, is a former police officer who turned to spirituality in the 1990s after taking Voluntary Retirement Scheme (VRS). He has millions of followers, including members of SC/ST, OBC communities, and Muslims. Notably, Akhilesh Yadav the leader of the Samajwadi Party, has also attended his sermons.
The Satsang, held at Bhola Baba’s ashram in Bahadur Nagar village, typically draws large crowds. His wife also accompanies him in his gatherings. Unlike other saints, this Jatav saint does not wear saffron robes rather he is often seen in his satsangs wearing white suit and white shoes.
Sometimes, he conducts satsangs wearing a kurta-pajama and a white cap. His devotees believe in the curative powers of water distributed during the gatherings. The ashram features a handpump, and it is common for long lines to form as people wait to drink the water.
Mahi Saha
Mahi Saha, from Ranchi, reports for Neo Politico.
