In a devastating incident at a religious gathering in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh, more than a hundred people lost their lives on Tuesday, as reported by local police and administration officials. The tragic incident took place during a satsang (prayer meeting) in the Mughal Garhi village of the Hathras district.

According to Chief Secretary Manoj Kumar Singh, among the 116 fatalities, 108 were women and seven were children. At least 18 individuals sustained injuries in the crush. Local authorities have attributed the overcrowding at the event as the main cause of the incident, leading to people stumbling into a local sewer.

The organizers of the gathering had initially estimated that around 80,000 people would be in attendance, as stated in their application. However, a significantly larger crowd showed up, exceeding all expectations. The unfortunate scenes unfolded after the event had concluded, when a large number of people gathered to seek blessings and collect soil from the venue, following local traditions. As a result, people started falling into an open sewer and onto each other.

Chief Secretary Singh expressed his disappointment in the organizers, alleging that they failed to adhere to the district's requirements. Local officials have launched a high-level inquiry to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident, and the event organizers are expected to face legal consequences for allegedly surpassing the permitted attendance levels.

Survivors of the tragedy recounted the horrific incident, with one witness describing how people were crushed under others as they fell. Medical personnel and authorities swiftly rushed to the scene, with efforts underway to provide medical care for the injured and conduct post-mortem examinations.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his condolences and assured the nation that the government is actively engaged in relief and rescue operations, collaborating closely with the state government. Modi emphasized that all necessary assistance and support will be extended to the victims and their families.

This unfortunate incident marks another tragedy taking place at a religious gathering in India, following a stampede at a shrine in Jammu in January 2022, which claimed the lives of several individuals. As authorities continue to investigate the incident, a newly formed high-level committee will conduct an in-depth inquiry.

The bodies of 27 victims have been taken to the Etah district mortuary, while the remaining bodies are currently in Hathras. Distraught families gathered outside local hospitals, hoping for news and seeking solace in the wake of the tragedy.

It is imperative for authorities to ensure robust safety measures and strictly enforce attendance limits to prevent such devastating incidents from recurring in the future. Efforts must be made to prevent overcrowding and ensure the safety and well-being of individuals attending large gatherings.

This article will be updated with any new developments as additional information becomes available.