A stampede-like situation occurred during a religious event in Bihar’s East Champaran district. The incident took place at the Shrimad Bhagwat Katha being held in Raxaul. The program is being conducted at the airfield ground of Raxaul. Three people sustained injuries during the chaos.
According to officials, the incident happened on Sunday afternoon. It was the fourth day of the Shrimad Bhagwat Katha. The event is being led by storyteller Aniruddhacharya. A large crowd had gathered to attend the religious discourse.
The situation turned tense around 2:30 pm. Chaos broke out near the main entrance gate. The trouble began during the entry of Aniruddhacharya into the pandal. Heavy crowd pressure caused the main gate to collapse.
Gate Breaks Due to Crowd Pressure at Main Entrance
Eyewitnesses said the crowd suddenly surged toward the VIP entry gate. Many devotees attempted to enter without valid passes. Dozens of people tried pushing through the restricted gate together. Police personnel present at the gate tried to stop them.
As police intervened, panic spread among the crowd. People began pushing each other to get inside. The pressure increased rapidly within minutes. The main entrance gate could not withstand the force. It eventually broke under the crowd’s weight.
The sudden collapse caused panic at the spot. People screamed and tried to move away quickly. Some devotees fell during the rush. Two to three people suffered minor injuries in the process. They were treated at the venue itself.
Police Act Quickly to Control the Situation
Police personnel stationed at the venue acted immediately. They formed a security cordon near the broken gate. The crowd was pushed back to avoid further injuries. Additional forces were deployed near the pandal area.
Officials said the situation was brought under control quickly. No serious injuries were reported. The injured devotees were provided first aid. After restoring order, the religious discourse began as scheduled.
Authorities stated that proper crowd management protocols were followed. The police remained alert throughout the rest of the event. Security was further tightened at all entry points.
Attempted Entry Through VIP Gate Without Passes
According to eyewitness accounts, the situation escalated suddenly. When Aniruddhacharya was about to enter the pandal, excitement increased. Several devotees tried following him inside through the VIP gate.
Most of them did not have entry passes. Police personnel stopped them at the gate. This led to arguments and pushing. Within moments, the situation went out of control.
People inside the crowd started pushing from behind. The front gate faced extreme pressure. The gate collapsed shortly after. The scene turned chaotic for a brief period.
Rumors of Lathi Charge Denied by Officials
After the incident, rumors spread about police using force. Some claimed a lathi charge was carried out. These claims created confusion among devotees.
Later, senior officials clarified the situation. Sub-Divisional Magistrate Manish Kumar addressed the issue. Deputy Superintendent of Police Manish Anand also spoke to the media.
Both officials denied any use of force by police. They stated that no lathi charge was conducted. According to them, police only used crowd control measures.
They said security personnel acted responsibly. The focus was on preventing injuries and restoring order. Officials termed rumors of police action as baseless.
Administration Says Security Arrangements Are Adequate
District authorities said the administration remains fully alert. They emphasized that security arrangements are in place. Entry through the VIP gate is strictly regulated.
Officials warned that entry without passes is prohibited. They urged devotees to follow instructions. Cooperation from the public is necessary for safety.
Authorities said additional barricades would be placed if required. Police deployment has been increased around the venue. Surveillance is being monitored continuously.
The administration assured that remaining days of the event will be peaceful. Officials said lessons have been learned from the incident. Crowd control measures will be strengthened further.
Large Crowd Arriving From India-Nepal Border Region
The Shrimad Bhagwat Katha is being held from February 5 to February 11. Every day, thousands of devotees are attending the event. Many visitors are arriving from nearby districts.
Devotees are also coming from the India-Nepal border region. A significant number are traveling from neighboring Nepal. The turnout has exceeded initial expectations.
Women devotees form the largest group among attendees. Many families are attending the event together. The heavy turnout has increased pressure on arrangements.
Authorities acknowledged the large crowd size. Managing such numbers has become challenging. However, officials said preparations were made keeping crowd volume in mind.
Devotees Raise Concerns Over Arrangements
Some devotees expressed dissatisfaction with arrangements. They complained about entry management issues. Long waiting times were also reported.
A few attendees said there were not enough volunteers. Others mentioned confusion at entry points. These factors may have contributed to crowding.
Officials said complaints are being noted. Necessary improvements will be made immediately. The administration said public safety remains the top priority.
Despite the incident, the religious program continued smoothly. Devotees remained seated during the discourse. The atmosphere returned to normal shortly after.
Event Continues Amid Tightened Security
Shrimad Bhagwat Katha sessions are continuing daily at the venue. Security presence has been increased after Sunday’s incident. Police personnel are deployed at all gates.
Barricading has been strengthened around sensitive areas. Entry and exit routes are being monitored closely. Volunteers have been instructed to assist devotees properly.
Officials appealed for calm and cooperation. They requested devotees to follow entry rules. Authorities stressed that discipline is essential during large gatherings.
The administration remains confident about managing the event. They said there is no threat to public safety. The focus remains on ensuring a peaceful religious atmosphere.
