U.P. stampede: CM Adityanath likely to visit Hathras today; condolences pour in

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to visit Hathras after stampede, leaders express condolences over tragic incident.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath is likely to visit Hathras on July 3 where a stampede at a religious congregation killed 116 people, a senior government official said.

Speaking to reporters at his residence on July 2, Mr. Adityanath said, “Our government will get to the bottom of this incident and give appropriate punishment to the conspirators and those responsible. The State government is investigating this entire incident. We will see whether it is an accident or a conspiracy.” He also slammed the political parties doing politics over the tragic incident and said, “Doing politics on such an incident is extremely unfortunate and condemnable. This is the time to heal the wounds of the victims, to sympathise with the victims. The government is sensitive in this matter and no culprit will be spared.” The Chief Minister said that whoever is found guilty will not be spared.

At least 116 people died and over 200 injured in a stampede at a religious event in Hathras district of Uttar Pradesh on July 2.

The incident occurred during a ‘satsang’ (prayer meeting) organised by self-styled godman Narayan Sakar Hari in Fulrai village under the Sikandrarau police station area of Hathras district, which was reportedly attended by over one lakh people, mostly women.

PM Modi expressed his condolences during his reply to the Motion of Thanks on the President’s address in Lok Sabha. The Prime Minister said he had received tragic news of people dying in the stampede in Hathras and the administration was engaged in relief and rescue efforts. He said all necessary help will be provided to victims. The Prime Minister also expressed his condolences over the deaths in the tragedy and wished speedy recovery to the injured.

Tamil Nadu Governor R.N. Ravi and Chief Minister M.K. Stalin expressed anguish over the Hathras stampede. The CM expressed solidarity with the affected. On the Raj Bhavan’s official ‘X’ handle, Mr. Ravi said: “Deeply anguished by the tragic loss of precious lives in the unfortunate stampede at Hathras, Uttar Pradesh.” “My deepest condolences to the bereaved families in this hour of grief. Prayers for the speedy recovery of the injured.” The CM said he was deeply saddened by the tragic loss of lives in the incident.

Leader of the Opposition, Edappadi K Palaniswami, also condoled the loss of lives. Puducherry Chief Minister N. Rangasamy expressed shock and grief over the death of several persons in the stampede.