Patna: The ongoing investigation into death of at least nine people in a stampede at the Sheetla Mata temple in Bihar’s Nalanda district, has pointed to widespread mismanagement and alleged misconduct by those responsible for overseeing the site.
The incident, which took place on Tuesday during heavy footfall on the final day of the Hindu month of Chaitra, has triggered arrests, suspensions and a widening criminal investigation. Authorities have so far arrested four priests, suspended five police personnel and registered a first information report against 20 named individuals, alongside several unidentified suspects.
CCTV footage from the scene, now part of the investigation, appears to show that instead of controlling the swelling crowds, some individuals associated with the temple used force against devotees. Officials say the footage suggests that members of the local priestly community struck visitors with sticks, exacerbating panic and contributing to the crush.
Police have described the tragedy as the result of “complete mismanagement and negligence”. The inquiry has been handed to senior officer Bimlesh Kumar.
The first information report was filed on the basis of a complaint by a local police officer, Mousami Kumari, naming key members of the temple management committee, including its president, secretary and treasurer. The complaint alleges that authorities failed to notify police about expected crowds or make adequate arrangements for managing the influx of worshippers.
Investigators are also examining allegations that barriers were deliberately erected near the sanctum to facilitate the illegal collection of fees from devotees seeking quicker access for worship. According to officials, some of those arrested are accused of allowing entry through a rear gate in exchange for money, slowing the movement of people exiting the inner sanctum.
As the queue outside the temple lengthened, pressure mounted at the main entrance, where bamboo barricades tied with rope were used to regulate entry. Witnesses said the structure eventually gave way under the strain of the crowd, causing a sudden surge of people into the temple complex.
The resulting chaos led to a deadly crush, leaving nine people dead and several others injured.
The investigation is ongoing. Authorities say further arrests are possible as they continue to analyse evidence, including the CCTV recordings.
