MillenniumPost
Big Story

Cannot rule out 'conspiracy' behind Hathras stampede: SIT report; 6 officials suspended

Cannot rule out conspiracy behind Hathras stampede: SIT report; 6 officials suspended
X

The Uttar Pradesh government has suspended six officials following the deadly stampede in Hathras on July 2, which claimed 121 lives. The suspensions were based on findings from a Special Investigation Team (SIT) report. Despite this action, no questions have been raised about Suraj Pal, also known as Bhole Baba, who is at the center of the incident. The SIT report suggested a potential conspiracy, echoing Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s call for a thorough investigation. The suspended officials include the Sikandra Rao SDM, Circle Officer, Station House Officer, Tehsildar, and two Chowki incharge officers.

The SIT, led by senior police and administrative officials, inspected the stampede site on multiple dates and collected statements from 125 individuals, including officials, the public, and eyewitnesses. They also reviewed related news articles, videos, and photographs. The SIT found the event organizers primarily at fault, based on witness testimonies and other evidence. The report emphasized the possibility of a major conspiracy and called for a detailed investigation. It identified the program organizers and local police and administration as culpable. The SIT criticized the officials for not taking the event seriously and failing to inform their superiors. The SDM of Sikandra Rao granted permission without inspecting the venue and did not notify senior officials.

The organizers were also found to have misled authorities to obtain permission and failed to comply with safety conditions. They did not adequately prepare for the large crowd and added individuals without proper verification, contributing to the chaos. The report further noted that the organizing committee obstructed police efforts to inspect the venue. Security arrangements were insufficient, and when the stampede occurred, committee members fled the scene.

Next Story
Share it