Lakhisarai: At least seven women were killed and more than 23 people injured in a stampede in Bihar’s Lakhisarai district on Monday. Three of the injured are reportedly in critical condition, and the death toll is feared to rise.
The incident occurred on the route from Ashokdham railway station to the temple, where a large number of devotees had gathered.
Rumour of electric shock triggers panic
Lakhisarai District Magistrate Shailendra Kumar said a pole fell on the side of the queue meant for men. Following this, a rumour spread that a live electricity wire had fallen on people.
However, officials said the wire was actually a cable used for dish or internet services, and not a live power line.
The rumour triggered panic among devotees. The resulting crowd pressure from the men’s queue reportedly spilled over towards the women’s queue, causing people to fall over one another.
A devotee waiting in the queue said there was heavy crowding when the news of the pole falling and possible electrocution spread. People began running to save themselves, after which barricades broke and several devotees fell on top of one another.
Four victims identified
Four of the deceased have been identified as Madhubala Devi, Manmala Devi and Hemlata Devi from Lakhisarai, and Rinku Devi from Munger.
Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary has announced compensation of ₹4 lakh each for the families of those who died in the incident.
