Japan PM Extends His Condolences to the People Who Died in Hathras Stampede Tragedy

In a heartfelt statement, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida expressed deep sorrow over the tragic stampede in Uttar Pradesh's Hathras district, which claimed the lives of 121 people and left 35 others injured. 

The incident occurred during a 'Satsang,' a spiritual gathering, plunging the local community into grief.

Prime Minister Kishida's statement conveyed profound condolences on behalf of the Government of Japan. 

He said, “I am deeply saddened to learn that many precious lives were lost in the stampede that occurred in India’s northern state of Uttar Pradesh. On behalf of the Government of Japan, I pray for the souls of the victims and extend my deepest condolences to the bereaved families. I would also like to express my sincere wishes for the swift recovery of the injured.”

The Prime Minister’s message came in response to the devastating event that took place on Tuesday, during which a large gathering for a religious event turned into chaos. 

The tragic loss of life has shocked not only India but also the international community, prompting condolences from leaders around the world.

Sandip Kumar Singh Lodhi, the Minister of State for Education (Independent Charge) in the Government of Uttar Pradesh, confirmed the casualties and the number of injured individuals. 

“It is a very unfortunate incident and we have been following up on every update from Hathras all night. It is really sad that the death toll has reached 121. About 35 people are injured,” Lodhi stated.

In the wake of the tragedy, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath visited Hathras to meet with the victims and their families, offering support and condolences. 

He also conducted a review meeting with officials at the Hathras police line to assess the situation and ensure proper action is taken.

The state authorities have acted swiftly, registering an FIR against Devprakash Madhukar, known as ‘Mukhya Sewadar,’ and other organizers of the ‘Satsang’ where the stampede occurred. 

Additionally, a search operation has been launched at the Ram Kutir Charitable Trust in Mainpuri district to locate Narayan Saakar Hari, also known as Bhole Baba, the preacher associated with the event. However, as of now, he remains untraceable.

Deputy SP Sunil Kumar, leading the search operation, confirmed, “We did not find Baba ji inside the campus. He is not here.” 

Meanwhile, Uttar Pradesh Minister Sandeep Singh assured that strict actions would be taken against those found responsible for the tragedy. 

“Till now 121 people have died in the incident…The injured are being treated. Strict action will be taken against those found responsible for the incident. This is not a small incident,” he asserted.

The Hathras stampede has left an indelible mark on the community, and the global outpouring of support underscores the profound impact of this tragedy. 

Prime Minister Kishida's condolences reflect a sense of shared grief and solidarity, reminding us of the interconnectedness of our global community in times of sorrow. 

As investigations continue and the injured receive medical care, the thoughts and prayers of people worldwide remain with the victims and their families during this difficult time.