Stampede at Nalanda’s Sheetla Mata Temple: 8 Dead, Toll May Rise

A tragic stampede at the revered Sheetla Mata Temple on Tuesday morning has claimed the lives of at least eight devotees, leaving several others injured and triggering panic in the region.

According to local sources, the incident occurred during a heavy rush of devotees who had gathered at the temple to offer prayers. As the crowd swelled beyond control, chaos broke out, leading to a sudden stampede within the temple premises.

Eyewitnesses described a scene of confusion and distress. “There was too much crowd and no proper management. People started pushing, and within moments, many fell on the ground,” said a local resident who was present at the site.

Authorities rushed to the scene soon after the incident, and rescue operations were immediately launched. The injured were shifted to nearby hospitals, while police and district officials began efforts to control the situation and clear the premises.

Officials fear that the death toll may rise as some of the injured are reported to be in critical condition.

The Government of Bihar has announced an ex gratia of ₹6 lakh for the families of the deceased. Senior officials have assured that all necessary medical assistance is being provided to the injured.

Preliminary reports suggest that overcrowding and lack of adequate crowd management arrangements may have contributed to the tragedy. However, a detailed inquiry is expected to be ordered to ascertain the exact cause and identify lapses, if any.

This incident once again raises serious concerns over safety arrangements at religious gatherings, especially during peak visiting hours when footfall increases significantly.

Further details are awaited as the situation continues to develop.