Uttar Pradesh: Five Dead, Over 50 Injured as Makeshift Platform Collapses at Baghpat’s ‘Laddu Mahotsav’

At least five people lost their lives and over 50 others, including Jain disciples and police personnel, were injured when a makeshift bamboo platform collapsed during a religious event in Uttar Pradesh's Baghpat district on Tuesday. The incident took place during the ‘Laddu Mahotsav’, a celebration organized by the Jain community in Baraut to honor the first Tirthankara in Jainism, Bhagwan Adinath.

The platform collapsed as hundreds of devotees had gathered at the temple to offer laddoos. A bamboo platform had been set up to accommodate the crowd, but it gave way under the weight of the people. "A ‘machaan’ (makeshift platform) collapsed during the 'Laddu Mahotsav' program in Baraut. About 20-25 people were injured, with some sustaining general injuries and receiving first aid before being sent home. Two to three people are seriously injured and are undergoing treatment in nearby hospitals," said Baghpat’s Superintendent of Police, Arpit Vijayvargiya.

Local authorities swiftly responded, police and ambulances arrived at the scene, taking the injured to nearby hospitals. While many received first aid and were discharged, others with more severe injuries are still being treated. "The local Jain community has been observing the 'Laddoo Mahotsav' for the past 30 years. A wooden structure collapsed, injuring about 40 people. Twenty of them have received first aid and been sent home, while the rest are receiving medical care," added District Magistrate Asmita Lal.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath expressed his sorrow over the incident and instructed officials to provide immediate assistance to the victims. His office confirmed that Adityanath had prayed for the swift recovery of those injured. The Chief Minister also directed local authorities to expedite relief efforts and ensure the affected individuals receive the necessary care.​