The tragic stampede at a 'satsang' in Phulrai village of Sikandrarao, Hathras, Uttar Pradesh, on July 2, led to the deaths of 121 people and left many injured. The event, organized by the Manav Mangal Milan Sadbhavna Samagam Committee for self-styled godman Surajpal alias Narayan Sakar Hari, also known as Bhole Baba, shocked the nation. Following the incident, Bhole Baba had been evading authorities, prompting widespread criticism and demands for his accountability.
On Saturday morning, Bhole Baba broke his silence, expressing his distress over the tragedy and urging affected families to trust in the judiciary. However, his delayed response and initial absence drew strong condemnation from victims' families and the public. They criticized him for not appearing sooner and accused him of hiding out of fear. Family members demanded justice and called for his immediate arrest, alleging that his actions contributed to the stampede and exacerbated the loss of lives.
Authorities had been searching for Bhole Baba, whose real name is Suraj Pal Singh, in connection with the incident. Meanwhile, Dev Prakash Madhukar, identified as the main accused in the stampede, was arrested and remanded to judicial custody. The community remains in mourning, grappling with the aftermath of the tragic event and seeking accountability for those responsible.
