Allahabad HC summons Hathras DM and SSP over 2024 stampede tragedy

The Allahabad High Court has ordered the former District Magistrate and Senior Superintendent of Police of Hathras to personally appear on January 15 to explain why they should not be held accountable for the stampede that claimed 121 lives in 2024.

Justice Shekhar Kumar Yadav, during a hearing on January 6, stated that the tragedy resulted from poor arrangements made by event organizers. He emphasized that it is the responsibility of the administration to ensure adequate police presence, medical facilities, and other necessary provisions for large gatherings.

The court also noted that many stampedes occur when large crowds, often composed of people with strong faith and belief, lose control, resulting in tragic outcomes. The incident in Hathras occurred during a "satsang" event organized by followers of Surajpal, also known as Bhole Baba, in Fulrai Mughalgarhi Village on July 2, 2024. Despite organizers estimating a crowd of 80,000, nearly 2.5 lakh people attended, leading to the fatal stampede.

While an FIR was filed following the complaint of sub-inspector Brijesh Pandey, the petitioner’s name came up in the investigation. The court called for lessons to be learned from the Hathras incident, urging the district and police administration to ensure proper arrangements for the upcoming Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj to prevent similar incidents.

The next hearing is scheduled for January 15.