Hathras Stampede : SDM, CO among 6 officials suspended for negligence in performing their duties
Hathras Stampede : In a major breakthrough, the Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the stampede suspended six officials for negligence in performing their duties which resulted in the death of 121 people.
The fatal incident took place at a religious 'Satsang' event of self-styled godman Suraj Pal, alias 'Bhole Baba,' in Fulari village, Uttar Pradesh's Hathras, on July 2.
According to a Special Investigation Team (SIT) report submitted to Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath this morning, the SDM failed to inspect the venue or inform his superiors. He is one of six district officials, including a Circle Officer and a Tehsildar, who have been removed from active duty.
The local SDM, CO, Tehsildar, Inspector, and Chowki in charge have been held responsible for negligence in performing their duties.
The investigation committee also found the program organizer and tehsil-level police and administration guilty.
Meanwhile, earlier in the day, a Special Investigation Team (SIT) investigating the stampede in Hathras recorded 119 statements and released a report on Tuesday, claiming that the committee that organised the 'Satsang' was responsible for inviting more people than allowed.
According to sources, the report revealed that the committee in charge of organising the religious event, 'Satsang,' was responsible for the stampede tragedy. The committee invited more people than was permitted, failed to make proper arrangements, and officials did not inspect the site despite granting permission.
The nearly 300-page study contains statements from 119 persons, including family members of the deceased and injured devotees.
Formerly known as Saurabh Kumar, the self-styled godman, had previously served in the intelligence department of Uttar Pradesh Police.
Bhole Baba, formerly Saurabh Kumar, left the UP Police after 17 years of service to pursue a spiritual journey as a preacher. He is frequently seen giving lessons in a white suit and tie.
He organises satsangs with his wife and is also known as 'Sakar Vishwa Hari Baba of Patiali'. Hundreds of people regularly attend his events.
- With inputs from agencies
