Sonu Sood Demands Answers: Hathras Stampede Sparks National Outcry

On Tuesday, tragedy struck Fulrai village in Hathras, Uttar Pradesh, as a serene gathering turned into a scene of chaos and sorrow. The event, dedicated to the worship of Bhole Baba, concluded abruptly when pandemonium erupted among the 134 attendees. Reports indicate that 121 lives have been lost in the aftermath, with many others severely injured, some critically.

The incident unfolded during a Satsang a spiritual discourse honoring Lord Shiva, drawing devotees from nearby towns and villages. Amid the devout gathering, temperatures soared, exacerbating the situation and leading to the collapse of several attendees due to the oppressive heat.

Shocked and saddened to hear of the unfolding tragedy at a satsang in Hathras. 122 devotees dead, many more seriously injured. My sincere condolences. Terrible news. pic.twitter.com/TX2R6IWvJ0

— Anand Ranganathan (@ARanganathan72) July 2, 2024

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath swiftly arrived in Hathras this morning, arriving at the scene at 11 AM to coordinate relief efforts and provide support to the injured. Speaking on the tragic events, local authorities expressed deep sorrow at the loss of life and the suffering inflicted upon families in the community.

Etah's Chief Medical Officer, Umesh Kumar Tripathi, conveyed the grim reality: "We have received 27 bodies, predominantly women, alongside a few men. Numerous others have been admitted to local hospitals for urgent medical attention." The toll on families and the community at large is palpable, as they grapple with the sudden and devastating consequences of the stampede.

Why? 💔 We have so many different religious places, festivals, gatherings across the country and so many innocent people lose their lives in such incidents. Will someone take a responsibility? Can’t we make a rule where these gatherings can be monitored and innocent lives be… pic.twitter.com/fGS8VRw9eV

— sonu sood (@SonuSood) July 2, 2024

Public figures, including Bollywood actor Sonu Sood, took to social media to express their condolences and question the circumstances surrounding the tragedy. Sonu Sood lamented, "Why do such incidents continue to happen? Across the country, religious gatherings and festivals are meant to be moments of spiritual solace, not scenes of tragedy and loss. Shouldn't someone be held accountable?"

His poignant remarks underscore a growing sentiment for enhanced safety measures and stricter oversight during religious gatherings nationwide. As the nation mourns the loss of innocent lives in Hathras, prayers and calls for comprehensive reforms resonate across communities, hoping to prevent such heart-wrenching incidents in the future.

- PTC PUNJABI