New Delhi: In a tragic incident during a ritual ceremony at Kalkaji Mandir in Delhi on Saturday midnight, one woman lost her life, and 17 others sustained injuries as a stage collapsed. The woman, who was rushed to the hospital by two individuals in an auto, was declared dead upon arrival. Efforts are ongoing to identify the deceased.
The injured individuals, some with fractures, were admitted to AIIMS Trauma Centre, Safdarjung Hospital, and MAX Hospital, and their conditions are reported as stable. The mishap occurred during the 'Jagarana' or 'Jagrata,' a Hindu ritual involving all-night vigils, songs, dances, and worship, where attendees got excited during a performance by renowned Indian singer and music producer B Praak. The stage, unable to withstand the overwhelming weight, collapsed.
According to Southeast Delhi DCP Rajesh Deo, the organizers expanded the scale of the event, a tradition at Kalkaji Mandir for 26 years, without obtaining permission for the gathering of nearly 1,500 to 1,600 people around midnight. Deo mentioned that sufficient police forces were present to maintain law and order.
An elevated platform near the main stage, made of wood and iron frame, was created for the seating of organizers' families and VIPs. Following the collapse, some devotees underneath the platform suffered injuries.
A case has been registered against the event organizers under Sections 337, 304A, and 188 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).
Expressing grief, B Praak issued a statement on his official Instagram handle, calling the incident "extremely unfortunate" and noting that it was the "first time something like this" had happened in front of him. In a video message, he conveyed his deep sadness over the incident.
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