Official government press releases or statements

Six Arrested in Hathras Stampede That Killed 121; Main Accused Bhole Baba Surrenders

Jul 5, 2024, 10:21 AM

In the aftermath of a deadly stampede at a religious gathering in Hathras, Uttar Pradesh, which resulted in 121 deaths, six individuals have been arrested. The incident occurred during a satsang led by the controversial preacher Bhole Baba, whose guards were seen instructing devotees not to record videos at the event. Despite the arrests, Bhole Baba, also known as Suraj Pal, remains at large, and his name has not been included in the FIR. Witnesses reported that the stampede was triggered when Bhole Baba instructed the crowd to take the dust from his feet. The delay in his arrest has sparked criticism, with some attributing it to his caste identity and questioning the Yogi Government's inaction. Additionally, Akhilesh Yadav has not been vocal about the incident. However, recent reports indicate that the main accused has surrendered, according to Bhole Baba’s lawyer.