In a tragic incident on Tuesday morning, at least five people were killed and over 40 others were injured when a wooden structure collapsed during a Jain community event in Baghpat’s Badaut area. The incident occurred around 8 am at Shri Digambar Jain Degree College grounds, where a programme was being held for the ‘Abhishek’ of Lord Adinath as part of the Moksha Kalyanak Nirvana Mahotsav, organized by Shri 1008 Adinath Bhaktaambar Prachar. The event had been held annually for the last 30 years.
The disaster occurred when the wooden stairs of a 65-foot temporary stage built in the Maanstambh Complex gave way. As a result, several devotees, both on the stage and standing nearby, fell from the structure. District Magistrate Asmita Lal confirmed the tragic loss of life, noting that 20 of the injured were treated and discharged after first aid, while the remaining victims are still receiving treatment.
Superintendent of Police Arpit Vijayvargiya assured that the organizers had obtained permission for the event and that an investigation was underway. The event, which had attracted a large crowd, turned chaotic as a stampede-like situation ensued following the collapse. Police swiftly responded to the scene and controlled the situation.
Eyewitnesses and locals have expressed concern about the lack of immediate medical assistance, with some claiming that injured attendees had to be transported in e-rickshaws due to the unavailability of ambulances. There have also been complaints regarding the insufficient security and disaster management arrangements for such a large gathering.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has directed local authorities to ensure that all injured victims receive proper treatment and has extended his wishes for their swift recovery. The incident has raised serious questions about safety measures at large public events.
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