THE All India Democratic Women’s Association (AIDWA) is shocked and outraged by the devastating stampede that occurred on July 2 in Hathras, Uttar Pradesh, during a Satsang conducted by self-styled godman Narayan Saakar Vishwa Hari, also known as Bhole Baba. Nearly 121 people, mostly women, lost their lives in this tragedy. The number of injured is still unknown.

In a statement issued on July 4, AIDWA said this incident starkly highlights the negligence of the Yogi government, which failed to ensure the safety and well-being of the people. The lack of adequate arrangements and crowd control measures led to this avoidable disaster.

The stampede is also a devastating consequence of the recklessness and negligence of these so-called spiritual leaders, who lure vulnerable people with unfulfillable promises. AIDWA condemned the exploitation of faith for personal gain and demanded that the government take action against the organisers of this Satsang. Although the police have lodged an FIR, Bhole Baba has not been named in it.

The lack of proper medical infrastructure and emergency response mechanisms resulted in the death of 121 people. Delayed medical attention and inadequate healthcare facilities are an outright indictment of the state’s apathy towards healthcare. The authorities' failure to provide adequate security measures and prevent overcrowding is a violation of the fundamental right to life of the citizens.

This incident is a wake-up call for the state to acknowledge its failures and take concrete steps to prevent such tragedies in the future. AIDWA holds the authorities accountable for their negligence, demands justice for the victims and their families, and calls for action against the perpetrators of this stampede. AIDWA expresses heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims who lost their lives in this tragic incident...