Surajpal, also known as Narayan Sakar Hari or ‘Bhole Baba,’ the self-styled godman, expressed deep sadness over the July 2 Hathras ‘satsang’ stampede that claimed 121 lives. In his first appearance since the incident, Bhole Baba urged affected families to trust the judiciary and promised support through his lawyer AP Singh.
The main accused, Dev Prakash Madhukar, surrendered to the police in New Delhi on Saturday. He was later taken into custody by Uttar Pradesh Police. An FIR was lodged on July 2, citing multiple charges including culpable homicide and wrongful restraint. Bhole Baba, though not named in the FIR, remains untraceable.
In a video message, Madhukar’s lawyer, AP Singh, emphasized his client’s cooperation with the investigation and highlighted his health issues. A ₹1 lakh reward had been announced for Madhukar’s arrest. Six others, including two women volunteers from the organizing committee, have also been arrested.
Bhole Baba condemned the incident and asked his committee to support the bereaved families. He reaffirmed his willingness to cooperate with the investigation, attributing the chaos to “anti-social elements.”
As the investigation unfolds, the public awaits further details on the preacher’s whereabouts and involvement.
#WATCH | Hathras Stampede Accident | Mainpuri, UP: In a video statement, Surajpal also known as 'Bhole Baba' says, "… I am deeply saddened after the incident of July 2. May God give us the strength to bear this pain. Please keep faith in the government and the administration. I… pic.twitter.com/7HSrK2WNEM
— ANI (@ANI) July 6, 2024
