Nalanda: A tragic stampede-like incident at the Maa Sheetla Mandir in Nalanda district of Bihar has claimed the lives of at least eight women, with several others sustaining injuries. The unfortunate event unfolded on Tuesday morning amid a large religious gathering at the temple, which is located near the ancient Nalanda ruins.
The incident occurred as President Droupadi Murmu was visiting Nalanda and scheduled to tour the nearby Nalanda ruins. Eyewitnesses reported that massive crowds had gathered early in the morning, leaving no space for devotees to move freely inside or around the temple premises. Many people reportedly fainted due to the intense heat from the bright sun, empty stomachs, and low blood pressure, triggering the chaotic situation.
According to accounts shared with ANI ambulances reached the spot quite late, causing further delays in providing medical assistance. Police officials along with local villagers immediately rushed to the site to carry out rescue and relief operations. The injured were shifted to nearby hospitals for treatment.
#WATCH | Bihar: A stampede occurred during puja at Maa Sheetla Mandir in Maghra village of Nalanda. Injuries reported, deaths feared. More details awaited.
— ANI (@ANI) March 31, 2026
Visuals from the hospital where the injured have been brought. pic.twitter.com/QXFFlfRv7s
The Bihar government has taken serious note of the tragedy and ordered a detailed inquiry by the Chief Secretary. Authorities have also been directed to ensure proper medical care for the injured and to restore normalcy at the temple premises at the earliest.
Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary expressed deep sorrow over the incident in a post on X (formerly Twitter). He described the stampede as extremely heartbreaking and extended condolences to the families of the deceased devotees as well as those injured in the accident.
नालंदा स्थित माता शीतला मंदिर में भगदड़ की दुखद घटना अत्यंत ही पीड़ादायक है। इस हादसे में जान गंवाने वाले और घायल हुए सभी श्रद्धालुओं के परिवारजनों के प्रति अपनी संवेदनाएँ प्रकट करता हूँ।
— Samrat Choudhary (@samrat4bjp) March 31, 2026
सरकार द्वारा पीड़ित परिवारों को हर संभव सहायता और राहत प्रदान की जा रही है। घायलों के…
A woman from Patna, who had come to the temple with three companions, recounted how she got separated from her group amid the chaos, with people being trampled underfoot.
This incident has once again highlighted concerns over crowd management during large religious events in the state. Officials are continuing rescue efforts and investigations are underway.
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