Devotees at the religious gathering where a stampede broke out, in Hathras district. Pics/PTI
Devotees suffocated to their deaths and bodies piled atop each other in the stampede among the biggest such tragedies in recent years - that took place at a 'satsang' in the district's Phulrai village
Many bodies were brought to neighboring Etah district. "Twenty-seven bodies have arrived in Etah hospital. Among those killed are 23 women, three children and a man." Senior Superintendent of Police Rajesh Kumar Singh said initially. But updates put the toll much higher
Based on hospital accounts, a district official said 50 to 60 people were killed. Unconfirmed reports said the toll was even higher
According to Sikandra Rao sub divisional magistrate Ravendra Kumar, the stampede took place when devotees tried to get a glimpse of the Bhole Baba, who conducted the 'satsang', at the end of the event
Speaking in Parliament, Prime Minister Narendra Modi condoled the deaths. On social media, President Droupadi Murmu said the news was heart-rending. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge expressed sadness
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath expressed condolences to the families of those killed, and announced an ex gratia compensation of Rs 2 lakh each gratia for the families of the dead and Rs 50,000 for the injured
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