Tragedy at Fulrai: The Hathras Stampede Probe

Surajpal, alias 'Bhole Baba', appeared before a judicial commission investigating the July 2 stampede at his congregation in Hathras, resulting in 121 deaths. While not named as an accused, his statement was recorded. The probe, extended by three months, seeks to identify potential conspiracies behind the event.

Self-styled godman Surajpal, commonly known as 'Bhole Baba', faced a judicial panel on Thursday regarding the catastrophic stampede on July 2 at his congregation in Hathras, that left 121 people dead.

Lawyer A P Singh informed PTI that Surajpal's statement was recorded over a two-and-a-half-hour session. Notably, he is not named as an accused in the FIR filed post the tragedy.

The judicial commission, established by the Uttar Pradesh government, is investigating possible conspiracies behind the incident, alongside a police inquiry. The panel, chaired by retired Justice Brijesh Kumar Shrivastav, has been granted a three-month extension for a thorough examination of over 1,100 affidavits submitted in the case.

(With inputs from agencies.)