At least seven Hindu devotees were killed and more than 10 others seriously injured in a stampede at a Shiva temple in eastern India on Monday morning, August 17, 2026.
The incident occurred near Ashok Dham, a popular temple dedicated to Lord Shiva in Lakhisarai, Bihar, where tens of thousands of devotees had gathered to observe the holy month of Shravan.
Mondays during Shravan are considered particularly auspicious for worship, resulting in large crowds at temples across the region.
Preliminary reports indicated that panic broke out after a fallen electricity pole reportedly caused a live wire to come into contact with people waiting to enter the temple.
According to The New Indian Express, the resulting panic caused worshippers to run for safety, leading to the collapse of a barricade and a subsequent crowd crush as people fell on top of one another.
The incident reportedly occurred at about 6:30 a.m. local time, according to the Lakhisarai District Magistrate.
More than 10 people were seriously injured, while officials warned that the death toll could rise.
Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary described the incident as “extremely tragic and heart-wrenching,” expressing condolences to the families of the victims.
“The news of the deaths of devotees in the accident has left my heart deeply distressed,” he said in a statement.
Choudhary also announced that financial assistance of approximately $4,184 would be provided to the immediate dependants of each deceased victim.
“In this hour of grief, the state government stands in complete solidarity and commitment with the bereaved families,” he added.
India’s Defence Minister, Rajnath Singh, also expressed sadness over the incident and offered condolences to the families of those who lost their lives.
“My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families of all those who lost their lives in this heart-wrenching incident,” Singh said.
He also prayed for the speedy recovery of those injured and offered his support to everyone affected by the tragedy.