Bihar Temple Tragedy: Crowd Panic Over Electric Pole Leads to Deaths

A severe crush at the Ashok Dham Temple outside Lakhisarai resulted in seven deaths and more than twelve injuries on August 17. The panic began when a low‑lying electricity pole collapsed on the pathway leading from the station to the shrine. Rumors that the pole was still electrified caused devotees to run in all directions, creating a chaotic stampede. Several people were trapped under the weight of others as the crowd surged forward. Police, health officials, and nearby locals responded swiftly, rescuing those trapped and ferrying the injured to medical facilities. All the deceased were identified as women, and medical teams continue to monitor the condition of the injured. The temple, also known as Shri Indradamneshwar Mahadev, is a focal point for Sawan‑month pilgrimages, a period when believers perform special rites and fasts to honor Lord Shiva.