Supreme Court, Led by Chief Justice, Refuses PIL for Hathras Stampede Probe; 121 Dead

Jul 12, 2024, 05:55 AM

The Supreme Court of India, led by Chief Justice, has refused to entertain a public interest litigation (PIL) seeking a probe into the Hathras stampede incident that occurred on July 2, 2024, resulting in the deaths of 121 people. The incident has drawn significant criticism from political parties, who have labeled it a failure of district administration and police. The petition highlighted several lapses, including the failure of state and municipal authorities to maintain supervision and control the crowd at the religious congregation led by Baba Narayan Sakar Hari. The incident also put under the spotlight administrative lapses and self-styled godmen claiming healing powers. The court has directed the petitioner, lawyer Vishal Tiwari, to move the Allahabad High Court for further proceedings.