Main Accused in Hathras Stampede Surrenders, Claims Lawyer

Devprakash Madhukar Taken into Custody After Surrendering in Delhi

Noida, Jul 5 (PTI) Devprakash Madhukar , the main accused in the July 2 Hathras stampede that claimed 121 lives, was taken into custody after he surrendered before police in Delhi, his lawyer claimed on Friday night.

Madhukar , the 'mukhya sevadar' (chief organizer) of the 'satsang' (religious prayer meeting) where the stampede occurred, is the only accused named in the FIR lodged at Sikandra Rao police station in the matter.

In a video message, Madhukar 's lawyer A P Singh claimed that his client had surrendered in Delhi, where he was undergoing treatment.

"Today, we have surrendered Devprakash Madhukar , who has been called the main organiser in the FIR in the Hathras case, after calling the police, the SIT and the STF in Delhi since he was undergoing treatment here," Singh said.

"We had promised we would not apply for anticipatory bail since we did no wrong. What is our crime? He is an engineer and a heart patient. Doctors said his condition is stable now and so we surrendered today to join the probe," the lawyer added.

Singh said police may now record Madhukar 's statement or question him, but they must take into consideration his health condition and ensure that "nothing wrong happens with him".

Uttar Pradesh Police had earlier announced a reward of Rs 1 lakh for information leading to Madhukar 's arrest. Till Thursday, six people, including two women volunteers who were members of the organizing committee of Surajpal alias Narayan Sakar Hari alias Bhole Baba's satsang where the stampede took place, had been arrested in the case.

The police is also looking for self-styled godman Surajpal alias Narayan Sakar Hari alias Bhole Baba for questioning, as he is on the run after the incident.

A report has been submitted to the government by the Additional Director General of Police (Agra Zone) Anupam Kulshrestha , who was among the top officers who visited Hathras to oversee rescue and relief measures after the stampede.

"Evidence collected so far suggests culpability of the organisers," said Kulshrestha , adding that the "conspiracy angle" cannot be ruled out. "Those culpable will face legal action," he said.

The Hathras stampede, which occurred during a religious gathering, claimed the lives of 121 people, mostly women. The tragedy has raised questions about the safety and security measures in place for such large-scale events.

As the investigation continues, the legal proceedings against the accused, including Madhukar , will be closely watched to ensure that justice is served and measures are taken to prevent such incidents from happening in the future.