Tragic stage collapse at Jain Community’s Nirvana Laddu Parv in Uttar Pradesh claims 5 lives, injures over 60

UP News: At least five people lost their lives and over 60 others, including Jain disciples and police personnel, sustained injuries after a makeshift stage collapsed during the ‘Nirvana Laddu Parv’ of Bhagwan Adinath, the first Tirthankara in Jainism. The tragic incident occurred on Tuesday in Baraut, Uttar Pradesh’s Baghpat district, triggering chaos and panic among the gathered devotees.

Rescue Operations Underway

The collapse of the temporary platform left several devotees trapped, prompting a swift rescue operation by authorities. Teams worked diligently on Tuesday morning to free those stuck beneath the debris. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath took immediate note of the incident and directed district officials to provide prompt medical aid to the injured. He also expressed wishes for their speedy recovery.

Officials Rush to the Scene

Baghpat District Magistrate Asmita Lal and Superintendent of Police Arpit Vijayvargiya visited the district hospital to assess the condition of the injured. Speaking to reporters, DM Asmita Lal confirmed five fatalities, with suspicions of two additional deaths, though official confirmation remains pending.

SP Arpit Vijayvargiya, in a statement to ANI, detailed the extent of the injuries: “A makeshift platform collapsed during the Laddu Mahotsav of the Jain community in Baraut. About 20-25 people were injured, with some receiving first aid and being discharged. However, 2-3 individuals are critically injured and are receiving treatment in nearby hospitals.”

Recent Tragedy in Tirupati Highlights Similar Risks

This incident comes on the heels of another tragic event earlier this month at the Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple in Andhra Pradesh. A stampede, triggered by a sudden surge of devotees pushing through a gate, resulted in six deaths and 35 injuries. District Collector S. Venkateswar recounted the chaos: “About 2,500 people pushed through the gate, causing a few to fall.” Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu visited the site, ordered relief measures, and launched a high-level investigation into the incident.