Tragic Stampede at Haridwar Temple Claims Lives of Six Devotees

Devastating Incident at Mansa Devi Temple

On Sunday morning, a stampede at the Mansa Devi temple in Haridwar resulted in the deaths of six devotees and left 28 others injured. The chaos erupted around 9 am due to panic caused by rumors of an electric shock near the temple's stairs, coinciding with a large influx of visitors typical for a Sunday.

According to Haridwar's Senior Superintendent of Police, Pramendra Singh Dobal, the unfounded fears of live electricity led to a rush away from the stairs, triggering the stampede. "Approximately 35 individuals were transported to medical facilities, with six confirmed dead," he stated. Among the deceased were a 12-year-old boy and three young adults aged 18.

Five individuals suffering from severe injuries have been transferred to AIIMS Rishikesh for advanced treatment. Disturbing footage from the scene depicted a large crowd, including women and children, pushing towards a narrow entrance, while anxious relatives awaited news outside the hospital.

In response to the tragedy, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami announced a magisterial investigation and promised stringent action against those who spread the false rumor. He emphasized that the administration is actively involved in relief efforts, pledging ₹2 lakh in financial aid to the families of the deceased and ₹50,000 to those injured.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his sorrow over the incident, extending condolences and wishing a swift recovery to the injured. He noted that local authorities are providing support to those affected.

Officials reported finding broken wires at the site, which may have been used by some individuals to ascend towards the temple. The State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), fire brigade, and local police are currently on-site to manage the situation.