In a swift response to a tragic incident in Madhya Pradesh, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav on Tuesday announced immediate relief measures for the victims of a stampede in Dabra, Gwalior district. The chaos erupted during a ‘Kalash Yatra’ ahead of the Pran Pratishtha ceremony at the newly constructed Navgraha Shakti Peeth temple, claiming the life of one woman and injuring several others.
The CM has approved Rs 4 lakh as ex-gratia to the family of the deceased woman from Hanuman Colony, identified as 70-year-old Rati Sahu. She was crushed in the crowd and later declared dead at the hospital. Additionally, three seriously injured individuals will each receive Rs 1 lakh, with instructions issued for free treatment to all affected.
The stampede occurred near Dabra Stadium where thousands of devotees, predominantly women, gathered to collect sacred kalash pots before joining the procession. This event marked the beginning of a grand 10-day ceremony overseen by former Home Minister Narottam Mishra, highlighting the temple’s unique status as Asia’s largest Navgraha temple where planetary deities are enshrined with their consorts.
Eyewitnesses described a sudden surge in the crowd leading to panic and pushing, though exact causes remain under investigation. Reports indicate 7-8 injuries, with four treated locally at Dabra Hospital. Critical cases, including a woman named Vimala and a minor girl, were rushed to advanced facilities like Apple Hospital and Jayarogy Hospital in Gwalior. One victim remains in critical condition.
Family members of the deceased, outraged over poor crowd management, initially refused to claim the body and paraded it back to the event site in protest, blaming administrative lapses. Gwalior Collector Rucheeka Chauhan promptly visited trauma centers, inspected arrangements at the temple, and directed officials to ensure comprehensive support for all victims.
This incident underscores the challenges of managing massive religious gatherings in India, where devotion often leads to overwhelming crowds. Authorities are now reviewing safety protocols to prevent future tragedies at such high-profile events. The state government reaffirms its commitment to the well-being of devotees while celebrating the cultural significance of the Navgraha Shakti Peeth.