Hathras Stampede: SC Refuses to Hear PIL Seeking Investigation by Expert Committee

The Supreme Court on Friday declined to entertain a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) seeking an investigation into the Hathras stampede that resulted in 121 deaths, directing the petitioner to approach the Allahabad High Court instead.

A bench of Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud and Justices J.B. Pardiwala and Manoj Misra noted that while such incidents are “disturbing,” high courts are equipped to handle such cases.

“Of course, these are disturbing incidents. This (filing of PIL) is usually done here to make a big deal of such incidents. The high court is equipped to deal with this case. Dismissed,” the bench remarked.

The apex court instructed lawyer and petitioner Vishal Tiwari to move the Allahabad High Court and disposed of the PIL. Tiwari argued that the issue of inadequate medical facilities to handle such incidents is a nationwide concern and that the Supreme Court should also address the PIL. However, the Chief Justice rejected this submission.

The plea had requested the appointment of a five-member expert committee under the supervision of a retired apex court judge to investigate the stampede that occurred on July 2 in Hathras district.

Over 2.5 lakh devotees had gathered in Phulrai village for a ‘satsang’ conducted by Baba Narayan Hari, also known as Saakar Vishwahari and Bhole Baba. The Uttar Pradesh Police has registered an FIR against the organizers for allegedly concealing evidence and violating conditions, as the event drew 2.5 lakh people when only 80,000 were permitted.

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