A tragic stampede on Tuesday marred the first day of the Pran Pratishtha ceremony at the Navgraha Shaktipeeth Temple in Dabra, Madhya Pradesh, resulting in the death of one woman and injuries to several others. The temple, built by former state Home Minister Narottam Mishra, is hosting a grand consecration event that will continue until February 20.
The incident occurred during the Kalash Yatra, when thousands of devotees had gathered at the temple premises. Reports indicate that the large crowd turned chaotic, leading to several women being trampled in the rush. Police and local authorities were on site, but the scale of the gathering reportedly overwhelmed the management efforts.
Dabra Sub-Divisional Police Officer Saurabh Kumar confirmed the death of 30-year-old Rati Sahu and said eight women sustained injuries, four of whom are in critical condition, including a four-year-old girl. Three critically injured individuals were transferred to Gwalior for specialized treatment, while others were admitted to local hospitals.
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Hospital authorities in Gwalior revealed that one woman remains unconscious and may have suffered serious abdominal or chest injuries. Medical tests are ongoing to ascertain the full extent of her condition. The four-year-old child and other injured persons are receiving intensive care at a private hospital in the city.
The stampede has ignited anger among local residents, with many questioning the adequacy of crowd control and police arrangements during the high-profile event. Eyewitnesses claimed that the rush began as devotees tried to approach the temple altar simultaneously, highlighting gaps in coordination and safety measures.
Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident and are reviewing crowd management protocols for the ongoing festivities. Officials have assured that additional security and medical teams will be deployed for the remaining days of the Pran Pratishtha ceremony to prevent any further mishaps.
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