Patna, Aug 17 (IANS) The death toll in the Ashok Dham temple stampede in Lakhisarai has been confirmed at seven, while 25 devotees were injured in the incident on the third Monday of the Sawan month.
The district administration has identified all seven deceased and the injured and released a complete list of those affected.
The deceased have been identified as Manmala Devi, Rinku Devi, Hemlata Devi, Lalita Devi, Savita Devi, Saroj Devi and Savitri Devi.
The injured individuals have been identified as Renu Devi, Ragini Kumari, Savita Devi, Moni Kumari, Vimla Devi, Reena Kumari, Muskan Kumari, Sandhya Kumari, Khusi Kumari, Pinki Kumari, Kanti Devi, Amerika Devi, Luto Devi, Rampari Devi, Mamata Devi, Kumkum Devi, Moni Kumari, Shivani Kumari, Gunjan Kumari, Mausham Kumari, Kamla Devi, Tuptup Kumari, Tannu Kumari, Anita Devi and Gayatri Devi.
According to the administration, the stampede was triggered by a rumour that a fallen electric pole had caused an electric current to spread among the devotees.
The rumour sparked panic and a sudden rush among the large gathering, resulting in deaths and injuries.
Of the 25 injured devotees, three are reported to be in critical condition. They received initial treatment at Lakhisarai Sadar Hospital before being referred to Patna Medical College and Hospital (PMCH) for further treatment.
The remaining injured are receiving treatment at different hospitals across the district.
The district administration expressed condolences to the families of those who died and said that Rs 4 lakh in ex gratia compensation has been provided to the next of kin of each deceased person through cheques.
The administration has also assured that the injured will receive proper medical care.
The district administration has constituted an inquiry team to investigate the circumstances that led to the stampede. Officials are examining the sequence of events, including the falling pole, the spread of the electricity‑related rumour and the subsequent movement of the crowd.
The administration has appealed to people to avoid believing or spreading rumours and maintain peace in the aftermath of the tragedy.
–IANS
ajk/dan