Days following the tragic stampede that claimed the lives of 121 individuals at a religious gathering in Hathras, the lawyer representing Bhole Baba has asserted that a substance was dispersed among the crowd, leading to the ensuing chaos.
AP Singh asserted this during a press briefing in Delhi on Sunday, citing witnesses who recounted the events of July 2.
The stampede occurred subsequent to a 'satsang' organized by Bhole Baba, also known as Surajpal, in Hathras, Uttar Pradesh. The majority of those who lost their lives were women.
Singh also claimed a plot, which he attributed to Bhole Baba's "growing popularity," behind the stampede.
"Witnesses have contacted me and stated that there were 15-16 individuals carrying containers of a toxic substance which they released into the crowd. I have reviewed the post-mortem reports of the deceased, which indicated they died from asphyxiation and not from injuries," Singh alleged.
Accusing a conspiracy in connection with the stampede, he stated, "There were vehicles positioned at the location to facilitate the escape of those involved. We possess evidence and intend to submit it. This is the first time I am discussing this."
Singh noted that the witnesses who approached him requested anonymity. "We will request security measures for their protection."