GUWAHATI: In the wake of the tragic stampede incident in Hathras on Tuesday, July 2, which claimed the lives of at least 100 people, a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) has been filed before the Supreme Court seeking a comprehensive inquiry and stringent measures to prevent future occurrences.
Petitioner Vishal Tiwari has requested the Supreme Court to appoint a five-member expert committee, supervised by a retired Supreme Court judge, to investigate the circumstances leading to the stampede. The PIL emphasises the need for an independent and thorough investigation to uncover lapses in responsibility and negligence by the authorities involved.
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The petition also calls for the Uttar Pradesh government to submit a detailed status report on the Hathras incident. It urges the Court to direct the state to initiate legal action against individuals, authorities, and officials whose negligent conduct may have contributed to the disaster.
Highlighting the recurring issue of stampedes at large gatherings in India, the petitioner has pleaded for the issuance of comprehensive safety guidelines for events that attract significant public attendance. The PIL suggests that these guidelines should be framed and implemented to ensure public safety and prevent similar tragedies in the future.
In supporting the need for such measures, the petition references previous incidents of stampedes during religious festivals and events, noting the frequent occurrence of such tragedies due to mismanagement and negligence. The plea argues that these incidents often result from a failure to maintain proper safety protocols and a lack of preparedness to handle large crowds.
The stampede occurred during a large religious gathering, a Satsang event, organised by Narayan Sakaar Hari, also known as Sakaar Vishwa Hari or Bhole Baba. leading to widespread calls for improved safety protocols.
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Over 120 people, most of them women and children, died in the stampede, while many injured are being treated in hospitals.
As per reports, the organisers of the 'satsang' sought permission for a gathering of 80,000-odd people, but a crowd of over 2.5 lakh turned up.
