Supreme Court Refuses to Entertain Probe into Hathras Stampede

The Supreme Court declined a PIL seeking a probe into the Hathras stampede, redirecting the petitioner to the Allahabad High Court. The stampede, during a religious event, resulted in 121 deaths. The court emphasized that high courts are capable of handling such cases and dismissed the plea.

The Supreme Court on Friday refused to entertain a PIL seeking a probe into the tragic Hathras stampede that left 121 dead, directing the petitioner to approach the Allahabad High Court instead.

A bench led by Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud, including justices JB Pardiwala and Manoj Misra, emphasized that while such incidents are undeniably disturbing, high courts are adequately equipped to handle such cases. Consequently, the bench dismissed the PIL.

Petitioner Vishal Tiwari, a lawyer, argued that the issue reflected a broader concern of inadequate medical facilities across India, justifying intervention by the Supreme Court. However, the CJI turned down this argument.

The plea had also sought the formation of a five-member expert committee under the supervision of a retired apex court judge to investigate the deadly July 2 stampede, which occurred during a religious gathering in Uttar Pradesh's Hathras district.

During the event, over 2.5 lakh devotees participated in a 'satsang' conducted by Baba Narayan Hari, also known as Saakar Vishwahari and Bhole Baba, despite only 80,000 attendees being permitted. The Uttar Pradesh Police have since registered an FIR against the organizers for hiding evidence and violating conditions.

(With inputs from agencies.)