Lucknow,

21 Feb (HS): The judicial report on the catastrophic 2024 stampede in Hathras,

in which 121 people died, is scheduled to be presented before the Uttar Pradesh

legislative assembly during the current budget session. This comes after the

state cabinet approved presenting the results to the Vidhan Sabha. On July 2, 2024, the stampede occurred during

a 'Satsang' given by self-proclaimed godman Bhole Baba, also known as Suraj

Pal, in Fulari village. Despite an

official permit for 80,000 guests, more over 200,000 people packed the

event. A 3200-page police chargesheet

accuses 11 persons but notably excludes Bhole Baba, raising legal discussion.

The Supreme Court refused to hear a plea for a five-member expert committee to

investigate the event, citing the High Court's authority to handle the issue.

The

court, led by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud, stressed the strength of the High

Courts and urged petitioner Vishal Tiwari to redirect his case there rather

than invoking Article 32. The petition

requested judicial action against culpable parties as well as preventive

instructions to avoid repeat incidents at large gatherings.

Hindusthan Samachar / Abhishek Awasthi