Bihar: Stampede at Ashok Dham Temple in Lakhisarai, 7 Devotees Killed
The World Relation: Lakhisarai, August 17: At least seven devotees, mostly women, were killed and more than a dozen others injured after a stampede-like situation broke out at the Ashok Dham Temple in Lakhisarai, Bihar, on Monday morning during the third Monday of the holy Sawan month.
A large number of devotees had gathered at the temple to offer prayers and perform Jalabhishek to Lord Shiva. The heavy rush reportedly led to barricades collapsing and triggered panic among the devotees.
Initial reports said an electric pole or wire fell, following which rumours spread that electric current had reached the area. The rumour reportedly triggered panic and a sudden rush among devotees, leading to the stampede. The exact sequence of events is being investigated.
Police and administrative teams reached the spot and launched rescue and relief operations. The injured were shifted to nearby hospitals for treatment.
Authorities have begun investigating the incident and the circumstances that led to the crowd surge. The death toll and number of injured may be updated as further information becomes available.
