Where is Bhole Baba? Missing After Hathras Stampede Tragedy

Preacher Bhole Baba might face a close arrest following a tragic stampede at his 'Satsang' in Hathras, Uttar Pradesh. The event led to the deaths of over 120 people and 28 injured, mostly women and children.

According to reports, the preacher disappeared from his ashram after the tragic incident. There are suspicions of a tunnel in the ashram simplifying his escape.

What Caused The Hathras Stampede?

In Hathras, Uttar Pradesh, a religious gathering was organized by the local preacher known as Bhole Baba. Despite only 80,000 people being permitted to attend, the gathering swelled to a massive crowd of 2.5 lakh devotees. 

The overwhelming number of attendees led to chaotic scenes, and a tragic stampede occurred when devotees rushed to collect the trail track of the godman's car after the event, resulting in a devastating crash.

Officers have swiftly responded to the issue, filing a case against the organizers for permitting a crowd far exceeding the approved limit of 80,000. 

The organizers have been charged with culpable homicide not amounting to murder, among other offenses under the new Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita criminal code.

Who Is Bhole Baba?

The original name of Bhole Baba is Suraj Pal, who is also known as Narayan Saakar Hari. He has a controversial background, claiming prior service with the Intelligence Bureau before dedicating himself to spirituality. 

The Bhobe Baba was born in Uttar Pradesh's Etah district, he claimed that he left his police job in 1999 and transitioned to his current spiritual persona. The preacher has followers also in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan.

Hathras Stampede Compensation:

The Stampede that happened has flared a high-level investigation, with a committee headed by senior police and administrative officials formed to investigate the causes and the handling of the tragedy. Meanwhile, compensation of ₹2 lakh per deceased victim's family and ₹50,000 for the injured has been announced.