Hathras stampede: Lawyer A P Singh, representing the self-styled godman Bhole Baba, denied initial reports suggesting the tragedy occurred when attendees rushed to collect soil or “charan raj” of the preacher's feet.
Here are the top ten updates:
1. The controversial preacher Bhole Baba, identified as Suraj Pal, is also known by the names of Narayan Saakar Hari and Jagat Guru Saakar Vishwahari. As reported by PTI, Singh further alleged that “anti-social elements” were responsible for the stampede at the preacher's 'satsang' event, which claimed the lives of 121 people, mostly women, on Tuesday.
Also Read: Overcrowding, suffocation inside tent, rush for ‘raj’ - What led to stampede at Hathras satsang?
2. According to preliminary government reports, the stampede occurred when a large number of his followers, mostly women, rushed towards the controversial preacher Bhole Baba, who equates himself to God, as he was leaving, to get a closer glimpse of him and collect his “charan raj.”
3. “Some anti-social elements hatched a conspiracy. When Narayan Saakar Hari left the venue, his vehicles left, our volunteers and followers failed to understand what was happening due to the conspiracy. This was done as per a plan and should be investigated,” lawyer A P Singh told PTI.
4. Singh stated that Bhole Baba is willing to collaborate with the state administration and police investigating Tuesday's stampede. Additionally, he has also called for a thorough investigation into the entire incident.
5. Asked about the claims made in the FIR and a preliminary report made by the local sub-divisional magistrate (SDM), the Supreme Court lawyer denied the charges and said, “Narayan Saakar Hari never lets followers touch his feet. The mention of the “charan raj” is also false. There is no video or picture of such an act.”
6. Singh clarified that he represents Bhole Baba and the main organiser of the 'satsang' held in Phulrai village within the Sikandar Rau police station area. He noted that the preacher himself is not named as an accused in the FIR filed in relation to the stampede incident.
7. Regarding his legal steps, he said, “We will visit the incident spot, consider other factors, and make a decision accordingly. During his programmes, maps are made, permissions are taken, and arrangements are made in adequate area.”
8. Singh added that Bhole Baba has condemned what happened after his 'satsang'. He claimed that the preacher's 'sevadars' and followers were extending support to the victims of the stampede and offering them food and medicines.
9. Earlier on Wednesday, Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel established a three-member Judicial Inquiry Commission led by Justice (Retired) Brijesh Kumar Srivastava. The commission aims to ensure a thorough investigation with transparency regarding the matter at hand. The other two members of the commission include Hemant Rao, a retired IAS officer, and Bhavesh Kumar Singh, a retired IPS officer.
10. In the next two months, the Judicial Commission will investigate the various aspects of the Hathras stampede and submit a report to the State Government.
(With inputs from PTI)
