Continuing To Increase, Death Toll During India's Uttar Pradesh Religious Event Estimated To Reach 87 People

UNSPLASH/Ravi Sharma ILLUSTRATION

A total of 87 people are feared to have died as a result of being trampled on and jostled at a Hindu religious meeting in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh.

This religious meeting took place in the Hathras district, about 200 km southeast of the nation's capital, New Delhi. Authorities said a large group of people gathered in open areas in response to calls from local religious leaders.

A police spokesman for the Manish Chikara district said the death toll was around 60, but said the number might increase.

Videos on social media showed bodies piled up on the ground outside local hospitals. Reuters could not immediately verify the image.

"The incident occurred due to overcrowding as people tried to leave the place," Hathras district administrator Ashish Kumar told reporters.

An unidentified witness told Indian television station Today there was a narrow exit in the area.

"When we tried to get out into the field, suddenly there was a commotion, and we didn't know what to do".

Head of Uttar Pradesh Minister Yogi Adityanath ordered an investigation.

"Instructions have been given to relevant officials to carry out relief and rescue operations under war conditions and provide proper care to injured victims," he wrote on X.