Jehanabad: A tragic stampede at the Baba Siddheshwar Nath temple in Makhdumpur block of Jehanabad, Bihar, resulted in the deaths of seven people early Monday morning, August 12, 2024. The incident occurred during a large gathering on the fourth Monday of Sawan, a peak pilgrimage day.
The stampede began around 1 a.m. as devotees surged in a chaotic crush, leading to multiple casualties. Many others were injured and are receiving treatment at Jehanabad Sadar Hospital. The administration fears the death toll could rise.
District Magistrate Alankrit Pandey and Superintendent of Police Arvind Pratap Singh are overseeing the situation on-site. Initial reports indicate that a dispute between a Kanwaria (pilgrim) and a flower seller may have triggered the chaos. Police and administrative teams are investigating the incident, and CCTV footage is being reviewed.
Eyewitnesses report that the stampede was exacerbated by a police lathi charge, though this claim is under investigation. The SDO Vikas Kumar stated that while security measures were in place, a detailed report on the incident will be released after further examination.
The temple has long been a site of massive crowds during Sawan Mondays, with devotees gathering to offer water. Authorities are reviewing all aspects of the event to prevent future tragedies.
