Aditya Amitabh Trivedii
Lucknow, July 9– In a decisive move following the tragic incident during a Satsang in Sikandrarao of Hathras district on July 2, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s prompt action plan has brought about significant accountability and thorough investigation. The Special Investigation Team (SIT) comprising the ADG Zone Agra and the Divisional Commissioner of Aligarh, immediately deployed after the incident they inspected the incident site on July 2, 3, and 5 during the investigation statements were collected from a total of 125 individuals, including administrative and police officials, the general public, and eyewitnesses. Additionally, copies of news articles related to the incident, on-site videography, photographs, and video clippings were reviewed. The key findings of the investigation committee's report are as follows:

Organizers' Negligence:
The investigation has primarily held the event organizers accountable for the accident due to their failure to make adequate arrangements for the crowd, as evidenced by eyewitness accounts and other collected evidence.

Conspiracy Theories:
While the primary cause has been identified as negligence, the report has not ruled out the possibility of a larger conspiracy, advocating for an in-depth investigation.

Administrative Lapses:
The program organizers and local tehsil-level police and administration have been found guilty of negligence. Officials, including the SDM, CO, Tehsildar, Inspector, and Chowki Incharge, have been held responsible for not performing their duties diligently.

Lack of Communication: The SIT found that the event was not taken seriously by the local officials, and senior officials were not informed. The Sub-District Magistrate of Sikandrarao granted permission without inspecting the venue and failed to communicate with higher authorities.

Disciplinary Actions:

Following the recommendations of the SIT, the government has suspended six officials:
- Sub-District Magistrate of Sikandrarao
- Police Circle Officer of Sikandrarao
- Station Officer of Sikandrarao
- Tehsildar of Sikandrarao
- Chowki Incharge of Kachora
- Chowki Incharge of Pora

Further Insights:

Organizers' Deception:
The organizers are accused of obtaining event permission by concealing facts and not following the stipulated conditions. They invited a large crowd without making necessary arrangements, leading to chaos.

Improper Security:
Individuals associated with the organizing committee, who were not verified by the police, contributed to the disorder. The organizers also obstructed police efforts to inspect the venue.

Failure to Manage Crowd: Despite the large gathering, there were no adequate security measures such as barricading or designated passageways, which led to the mishap.

Yogi Adityanath’s swift and decisive response to the incident:

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has been praised for his swift and decisive response to the incident. His administration's quick formation of the SIT and immediate suspension of negligent officials underscore his commitment to accountability and justice. The rigorous follow-up actions and the judicial commission’s involvement reflect a strong stance against administrative negligence and potential conspiracies.

This incident highlights the importance of strict adherence to event safety protocols and diligent administrative oversight to prevent such tragedies in the future.