India stampede tragedy: Who is Bhole Baba, organiser of the Hathras 'satsang'?

A religious event in India's Uttar Pradesh state turned into a deathbed for 116 people on Tuesday (Jul 2) following a tragic stampede. The incident unfolded in Hathras at a satsang (religious prayer meeting) conducted by Narayan Sakaar Hari, also known as Sakaar Vishwa Hari or Bhole Baba. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath have expressed condolences over the incident. An investigation has been launched to ascertain what caused the tragedy.

Who is Bhole Baba?

Bhole Baba claims to be a former employee of the Intelligence Bureau (IB), an internal security and counterintelligence agency of India. Around 26 years ago, he allegedly left his job at the IB to deliver religious sermons. Today, he is followed by thousands of people across north India, including in states like Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Haryana, Rajasthan and the capital Delhi.

He is generally seen giving lessons wearing a white suit and tie.

Bhole Baba is not active on social media but he says his organisational structure is solid at the grassroots level.

He usually organises his religious events in Uttar Pradesh's Aligarh every Tuesday where hundreds of 'devotees' assemble. During such gatherings, volunteers ensure necessary arrangements for the visitors, including food and drinks.

Bhole Baba previously came to the limelight when he continued holding large religious events showing no regard for COVID-19 restrictions.

How did the stampede break out?

As per media reports, the 'devotees' were stopped from leaving the Hathras venue despite heat and humidity so that the preacher and his retinue could leave first.

Finally, when the visitors were allowed to exit, chaos broke out as people couldn't hold back due to heat. This led to the stampede tragedy, claiming more than 80 lives, mostly women.

Several victims, including those who died, were brought to the Sikandara Rao Trauma Centre in trucks and other vehicles.

Several horrifying videos have emerged on social media, showing dead bodies piled up outside the medical centre.

(With inputs from agencies)