Six die at temple in India’s Bihar after ‘stampede-like’ event, officials say
Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- At least six people died and several were injured in an incident at the Ashok Dham temple in India's Bihar state.
- Officials suspect a falling electricity pole startled worshippers, leading to a stampede-like situation.
- The exact cause is under investigation, with authorities verifying reports of electrocution and crowd panic.
A stampede-like incident at the Ashok Dham temple in India's Bihar state has resulted in the deaths of at least six people and injured several others. The tragedy occurred during a Hindu holy month, with a large crowd of devotees present.
Authorities are investigating the precise cause, but initial reports suggest a falling electricity pole may have startled the worshippers. This sudden event could have triggered a panic, leading to a stampede-like situation where people were trampled or crushed.
It is being said that an electric pole fell there and people were electrocuted, which led to a stampede-like situation.
"It is being said that an electric pole fell there and people were electrocuted, which led to a stampede-like situation," stated Shivam Kumar, a senior police officer, to news agency ANI. He emphasized that the exact reason can only be confirmed after a thorough verification of all circumstances.
Images from television showed relatives anxiously gathered at hospitals as rescuers transported injured individuals on stretchers. This incident adds to India's history of crowd-related accidents, including a tragic event at the Maha Kumbh festival in 2025 where 30 people died amidst a gathering of tens of millions.
We can tell you the exact reason only after verifying everything.
Originally published by The Straits Times. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.