Hathras Stampede: Key Facts for Competitive Exam Preparation

Historical Context

Stampedes at religious gatherings have been a recurring issue in India, often due to inadequate crowd management and safety measures. The Hathras incident is a stark reminder of the tragic 1954 Kumbh Mela stampede in Allahabad, which resulted in hundreds of deaths. Understanding these events is crucial for competitive exams, as they highlight the importance of public safety and effective governance.

Incident Overview

On a tragic day in Hathras, Uttar Pradesh, a stampede at Bhole Baba’s satsang led to the death of 121 people. Despite the severity of the incident, the Uttar Pradesh police did not name the preacher, Bhole Baba, in their FIR. Bhole Baba, also known as Baba Narayan Hari and Saakar Vishwa Hari Bhole Baba, has maintained a low profile since the incident.

Bhole Baba’s Background

• Former Police Officer: Bhole Baba left the police force over two decades ago to become a religious preacher.
• Ashrams: He presides over several ashrams, with the largest located in Mainpuri, Uttar Pradesh.
• Teachings: In his sermons, Bhole Baba equates himself with God and claims to visit various religious places only when invited.

Stampede Details

• Cause: Preliminary reports suggest the stampede occurred when Bhole Baba’s security detail pushed followers trying to collect dirt from his feet, exacerbated by a slippery slope.
• Security Measures: The police have increased security around Bhole Baba’s Mainpuri ashram, although he was not found on the premises.
• Legal Actions: The Uttar Pradesh police have lodged an FIR against the event organizers for hiding evidence and exceeding the permitted number of attendees. The organizers had permission for 80,000 followers, but 2.5 lakh people turned up.

Reactions and Consequences

• Cancellations: Authorities have canceled Bhole Baba’s upcoming congregations.
• Legal Defense: Bhole Baba’s lawyer, AP Singh, claims the stampede was a result of a conspiracy by anti-social elements and denies that followers were scrambling to collect mud from the preacher’s feet.

Summary in Bullet Points

• Incident: Stampede at Bhole Baba’s satsang in Hathras, Uttar Pradesh, resulting in 121 deaths.
• Preacher: Bhole Baba, also known as Baba Narayan Hari, a former police officer turned religious preacher.
• Cause: Stampede triggered by security pushing followers; exacerbated by a slippery slope.
• Legal Actions: FIR against event organizers for exceeding permitted attendee numbers and hiding evidence.
• Security: Increased police presence at Bhole Baba’s Mainpuri ashram.
• Cancellations: Upcoming congregations canceled by authorities.
• Defense: Lawyer claims stampede was a conspiracy by anti-social elements.

Understanding the historical context and details of such incidents is essential for students preparing for competitive exams, as it provides insights into public safety, governance, and crisis management.