SDM, tehsildar, circle officer among officials suspended over Hathras stampede
The Uttar Pradesh government has suspended six officials, including a sub-divisional magistrate (SDM), a tehsildar, a circle officer, a station officer, and two police outposts in charge. This action comes in the wake of a stampede at a religious gathering in Hathras that resulted in 121 deaths. The suspensions were recommended by the Special Investigation Team (SIT) formed to investigate the incident.
Officials allegedly responsible for Hathras incident
The SIT report, submitted on Monday, found the suspended officials primarily responsible for the tragedy. The officials reportedly did not take the gathering seriously and failed to inform their superiors. "The SDM granted permission for the event without inspecting the venue or informing senior officials," an official said. The report also disclosed that event organizers obtained permission by concealing facts and disregarding conditions under which they were allowed to hold it.
SIT flags role of organizing committee
The SIT report pointed out that individuals associated with the organizing committee contributed to the chaos at the event. Some members were included without proper police verification, and they reportedly misbehaved with police, attempting to prevent them from inspecting the venue. The report also noted that despite a large crowd, no barricading or passage arrangements were made by the organizers.
SIT's investigation into Hathras stampede
The SIT recorded statements from 125 people, including administrative and police officials, members of the public, and eyewitnesses. "Additionally, news articles related to the incident, on-site videography, photographs, and video clippings were reviewed," an official stated. The team comprised additional director general (Agra Zone) Anupam Kulshrestha and Aligarh divisional commissioner Chaitra V. The report has been submitted to the government.
Main accused in Hathras stampede incident apprehended
The stampede occurred at a religious "satsang" event of self-styled godman "Bhole Baba," in Fulari village, Uttar Pradesh's Hathras, on July 2. Devprakash Madhukar, the main accused in the incident, was sent to 14 days of judicial custody after being produced before the Chief Judicial Magistrate Court on Saturday. Madhukar had been absconding and a reward of ₹1 lakh was announced for information leading to his arrest. He was finally apprehended on July 5 in the national capital.
