At Least 33 Killed in Patna Stampede After Dussehra Celebrations: Latest Developments

The incident occurred at the narrow Exhibition road outside the landmark Gandhi Maidan as people were returning after watching Dussehra celebrations.

Eyewitnesses say the stampede started after two people spread a rumour that an electrical wire had snapped off and fallen down. The administration, however, has not confirmed this.

There was inadequate street light on South-East side of Gandhi Maidan as people ran for their lives and in the process fell on each other in the darkness, the eyewitnesses said.

"Senior officials are at the hospital including the Health Secretary and treatment is being ensured," said Amir Subhani, Home Secretary, Bihar.

A few people were seen fighting with security forces at the Patna Medical College and Hospital in search of their missing relatives. The hospital has been cordoned off by security forces as desperate kin attempted to rush in.

Dussehra celebrations at the Gandhi Maidan are the biggest in Patna and at least 50,000 people turn up every year to watch the burning of gigantic effigies here. The event is held jointly by the district administration and a private organiser. Bihar Chief Minister Jitan Ram Manji was also present at the Gandhi Maidan for the celebrations.

Many blamed the district police for keeping most exit gates shut at the Gandhi Maidan which forced most people to leave together from the same gate.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has sanctioned Rs. 2 lakh each for the next of those killed, and Rs. 50,000 for those critically injured.

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh spoke to Mr Manjhi about the incident and has sought a report from the state government on the incident, say sources.

The district administration has issued 0612-22219810 and 9431800675 helplines for query regarding the stampede tragedy.