In a major development following the tragic stampede in Bihar’s Nalanda district, police have arrested four priests and registered an FIR against around 40 individuals. The action comes after a deadly incident at the Sheetla Mata temple that claimed several lives and left many injured.
Authorities have intensified the investigation, focusing on alleged negligence and mismanagement that led to the disaster.
Four priests arrested
Police confirmed that four priests associated with the temple have been taken into custody in connection with the stampede. The arrested individuals have been accused of contributing to the chaos that resulted in the tragic loss of lives.
According to preliminary findings, the priests were allegedly allowing devotees special or quicker access to the temple in exchange for money, which disrupted the crowd flow and worsened congestion.
FIR filed against 40 people
In addition to the arrests, an FIR has been registered against nearly 40 individuals. This includes around 20 named accused and 20 unidentified persons.
Officials stated that the case has been filed under various sections related to negligence, endangering life, and mismanagement of public gatherings. Further arrests may follow as the investigation progresses.
Overcrowding and mismanagement blamed
The stampede occurred during a religious gathering at the Sheetla Mata temple in the Deepnagar area, where thousands of devotees had assembled. Reports suggest that around 20,000–25,000 people had gathered at the site.
Eyewitnesses and officials pointed to poor crowd management, lack of proper entry-exit systems, and inadequate security arrangements as key reasons behind the tragedy.
Incident claimed multiple lives
The stampede, which took place during a busy prayer day, resulted in the deaths of at least eight devotees, most of them women, while several others sustained injuries.
Allegations of money-for-darshan
Investigators suspect that a system of “paid darshan” may have worsened the situation. Priests and others allegedly facilitated quicker access to the shrine for a fee, which disrupted the queue system and created disorder.
This alleged practice is being seen as a major factor behind the uncontrolled crowd movement that led to the stampede.
Administrative lapses under scrutiny
Apart from temple management, authorities are also examining possible lapses on the part of local administration. Questions have been raised about inadequate police deployment, poor planning, and lack of crowd control measures.
Officials have assured strict action against all those found responsible, including administrative personnel if negligence is established.
Public anger and ongoing probe
The incident has sparked outrage among local residents and families of the victims, who have demanded strict punishment for those responsible. The tragedy has also highlighted serious concerns about safety arrangements at religious gatherings.
Investigations are ongoing, with authorities working to identify all individuals involved and prevent such incidents in the future through stricter regulations and improved crowd management systems.