Official announcements from the Uttar Pradesh police or verified news reports

Hathras Stampede on July 2: 121 Dead, Six Officials Suspended, 11 Arrested

Jul 9, 2024, 05:19 AM

A recent stampede during a religious gathering in Hathras, Uttar Pradesh, on July 2 resulted in the death of 121 people. The chaos reportedly began when a large number of devotees attempted to collect soil from the feet of the self-proclaimed godman, Bhole Baba. Advocate AP Singh, representing Bhole Baba, alleged that the stampede was a result of a criminal conspiracy involving toxic substances sprayed by unidentified individuals. The Uttar Pradesh government has suspended six officials, including the SDM and Tehsildar, for negligence. Farmers' leader Rakesh Tikait has called for compensation for the victims. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) led by Additional Director General of Police (Agra Zone) Anupam Kulshrestha has submitted a detailed report, citing overcrowding and inadequate arrangements as primary causes. The report also recorded statements from 132 people and did not rule out the possibility of a conspiracy. So far, 11 people, including Suraj Pal, have been arrested in connection with the incident. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has been overseeing the investigation.