Mansa Devi temple Stampede: In a tragic incident at the Mansa Devi temple in Haridwar, Uttarakhand, six people lost their lives and more than 25 devotees were injured due to a stampede on Sunday. According to police officials, the incident occurred when a sudden panic broke out among the large crowd of devotees, leading to chaos on the temple steps.
What Triggered the Stampede?
Haridwar Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Pramendra Singh Dobal informed that around 35 people were rushed to nearby hospitals, where six were declared dead. The SSP revealed that the panic was caused by a rumour about an electric current near the temple’s starting point, which led to fear and commotion among the devotees.
District Magistrate (DM) Mayur Dixit confirmed that a magisterial inquiry will be conducted to determine how the rumour spread. “We have checked photos and videos, and there is no indication of any electric wire breaking. We will investigate who spread the rumour that caused the stampede,” he said.
Prime Minister Modi Expresses Grief
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences on X (formerly Twitter). He posted:
“Deeply saddened by the loss of lives due to a stampede on the route to Mansa Devi Temple in Haridwar, Uttarakhand. Condolences to those who lost their loved ones. May the injured recover soon. The local administration is assisting those affected.”
Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami Responds
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami termed the incident as “extremely distressing” and assured that the state government is closely monitoring the situation. He posted:
“@uksdrf, local police, and rescue teams have reached the site and are engaged in relief and rescue operations. I am in constant contact with the local administration regarding this matter, and the situation is being closely monitored. I pray to Mother Goddess for the safety and well-being of all devotees.”
Eyewitness Accounts
One of the injured devotees recalled the horrifying moment:
“Just 20-25 steps before the temple premises, the crowd became uncontrollable. I fell along with 10 to 12 others. I managed to find three of my family members, but two are still missing.”
Rescue and Medical Aid
Rescue operations by the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and local police are underway. Injured devotees are being treated in nearby hospitals, and authorities are ensuring proper medical facilities for all victims.
Further Investigation Underway
Authorities have initiated a magisterial probe into the incident. Garhwal Division Commissioner Vinay Shankar Pandey is heading to the site to oversee the investigation and review safety measures.