Massive Stampede at Mansa Devi Temple in Haridwar; 6 Dead

Mansa Devi Stampede:  At least six people were killed and several others injured in a tragic stampede at the Mansa Devi temple in Haridwar on Sunday. The incident occurred after an overwhelming crowd gathered at the popular hilltop shrine, leading to chaos and panic among the devotees.  

Confirming the incident, Garhwal Division Commissioner Vinay Shankar Pandey told news agency ANI, “Six people have died in a stampede after a huge crowd gathered at the Mansa Devi temple in Haridwar. I am leaving for the spot. A detailed report of the incident is awaited.”

According to officials, a sudden surge in the number of pilgrims caused confusion, triggering the stampede. As soon as news of the incident reached authorities, police and administrative teams rushed to the site to take control of the situation and assist the injured.

Rescue and relief operations are currently in progress following the deadly stampede at Mansa Devi temple in Haridwar. Authorities are working to identify the victims and investigate the cause, with initial suspicions pointing towards possible electrocution.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow over the tragic loss of lives in the stampede near the Mansa Devi temple in Haridwar. In a message shared by the Prime Minister's Office, he said, "Deeply saddened by the loss of lives due to a stampede on the route to Mansa Devi Temple in Haridwar, Uttarakhand. Condolences to those who lost their loved ones. May the injured recover soon. The local administration is assisting those affected." The Prime Minister's message underscores the gravity of the incident and the Centre’s support for ongoing relief efforts.

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed profound sorrow over the incident. In a post on X, he wrote, "The news of a stampede at Haridwar’s Mansa Devi temple is extremely saddening. SDRF, local police and other rescue teams are on-site and engaged in relief and rescue operations."

He further added, "I am in constant touch with the local administration and closely monitoring the situation. I pray to Mata Rani for the well-being of all devotees."

Providing further details, Haridwar SSP Pramod Singh Doval said that the police control room received information about the incident around 9 AM. Initial reports indicated that several people were injured in a stampede near the Mansa Devi temple premises.

According to SSP Doval, a total of 35 people were brought to the hospital, out of which six have been confirmed dead. The remaining victims are currently undergoing treatment.

He stated that prima facie, the stampede appears to have been triggered by panic caused due to a rumour of an electric shock near the stairs, approximately 100 metres below the temple road.