Patna: Rush of Devotees at ISKCON Temple Causes Brief Chaos During Janmashtami
Patna: On Monday evening, the ISKCON temple in Patna experienced a chaotic situation as a heavy influx of devotees celebrating Janmashtami led to a stampede-like incident. Fortunately, no fatalities were reported, and only minor injuries were sustained by a few individuals.
According to Patna Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Rajeev Mishra, the situation was quickly brought under control by the police. Video footage circulating on social media depicted security personnel struggling to manage the large crowd, with some devotees falling to the ground and being assisted by the guards.
SSP Mishra explained that a substantial number of devotees gathered at the ISKCON temple in the evening, and while adequate security measures were in place, additional personnel were deployed when the crowd surged. The efforts of the security team were crucial in averting a full-scale stampede, and the situation was promptly stabilized.
“The situation was challenging but manageable,” Mishra stated. “The primary focus was on controlling the crowd. Women security personnel were also deployed in significant numbers to assist in crowd management.”
In a statement issued by the Patna district administration, it was confirmed that there was no stampede at the temple. The administration noted that minor force was used to manage those attempting to breach police barricades, and affirmed that the situation was entirely under control.
This incident follows a recent tragic event in Bihar’s Jehanabad district, where a stampede at Baba Siddheshwar Nath Temple resulted in seven fatalities and 16 injuries earlier this month.
