In a shocking revelation following the tragic stampede that claimed 121 lives during a ‘satsang’ in Hathras on July 2nd, the Special Investigation Team (SIT) formed by the Uttar Pradesh government has unearthed damning details pointing to gross negligence by the event organizers. Here’s an in-depth look at the findings and the aftermath of this devastating incident:

Organisers’ Failures and SIT Allegations

1. Lack of Crowd Management: The SIT investigation has squarely blamed the ‘satsang’ organisers for failing to make adequate arrangements to manage the large gathering. According to the report, organizers allegedly secured permission for the event by concealing crucial details from local authorities. The conditions attached to the permission, crucial for ensuring crowd safety, were reportedly disregarded.
2. Potential Conspiracy: The SIT has not ruled out the possibility of a larger conspiracy behind the stampede. Allegations have surfaced suggesting that unidentified individuals may have triggered the chaos by spraying a poisonous substance, though this claim remains under investigation. Legal representatives of Suraj Pal alias ‘Bhole Baba’, the self-styled preacher leading the ‘satsang’, have raised suspicions regarding these alleged external provocations.
3. Official Negligence: The probe has also held several local administrative officials accountable for negligence in carrying out their duties. The list includes the Sub Divisional Magistrate (SDM), Circle Officer, Tehsildar, Inspector, and Outpost In-Charge, all of whom allegedly failed to ensure proper crowd control measures were in place.
4. Administrative Oversight: Specifically, the SDM of Sikandraru stands accused of granting permission for the event without conducting a site inspection or informing higher authorities. The SIT report further alleges that the organizers obstructed local police from inspecting the venue and behaved confrontationally, exacerbating the situation.
5. Security Lapses: Shockingly, ‘Bhole Baba’ was allowed to interact with the crowd without any security arrangements in place. The report highlights a complete absence of barricades or designated passages, which could have prevented the stampede. When chaos erupted, members of the organizing committee reportedly abandoned their posts, compounding the disaster.

Government Action and Public Outcry

In response to the SIT findings, the Uttar Pradesh government swiftly took action by suspending the implicated officials, signaling a zero-tolerance approach towards administrative lapses leading to public tragedies. The incident has sparked widespread public outcry and calls for a thorough investigation to uncover all facets of this harrowing event.

Conclusion

The Hathras stampede has not only claimed numerous lives but has also exposed systemic failures and potential criminal negligence on the part of event organizers and local authorities. As investigations continue, the quest for justice and accountability remains paramount, promising lessons to be learned for ensuring the safety and security of public gatherings in the future.