India: temple stampede leaves at least seven dead and 19 injured
At least seven people died and 19 others were injured Monday in a stampede at a Hindu temple in eastern India, authorities said. The incident occurred as thousands of devotees gathered for religious observances dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva.
Panic erupts at Ashok Dham temple
The tragedy took place at the Ashok Dham temple, in Lakhisarai district in the state of Bihar. A large crowd had gathered at the religious site when panic suddenly spread among worshippers.
According to district magistrate Shailendra Kumar, the stampede was triggered by rumours that an electrical pole had fallen onto people inside the temple.
The misinformation appears to have caused a sudden movement within the densely packed crowd, resulting in people being knocked down and trampled.
Authorities confirm seven deaths
Officials confirmed that seven people were killed and 19 others injured in the incident. The injured were taken to hospitals for medical treatment.
Authorities said the situation had subsequently been brought under control, while emergency services and local officials dealt with the aftermath.
The circumstances surrounding the crowd movement are expected to be examined as authorities assess how the tragedy unfolded.
A gathering dedicated to Shiva
The devotees had assembled to honour Shiva, one of the principal deities in Hinduism. Religious celebrations in India can attract extremely large crowds, creating significant challenges for organisers and authorities responsible for crowd management.
The incident once again highlights the risks associated with mass gatherings when panic spreads rapidly through tightly packed groups.
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