Stampede at Sheetla Temple in Bihar’s Nalanda Kills 8 Devotees, Several Injured

At least eight devotees were killed and several others injured in a stampede at a temple in Bihar’s Nalanda district on Tuesday morning (March 31, 2026). Most of the victims are reported to be women. Authorities fear the death toll may rise as several injured devotees remain in critical condition. The incident took place at the Sheetla Temple located in Maghra village under the Deepnagar police station area. According to initial reports, the stampede occurred due to an unusually large crowd and inadequate arrangements at the temple premises. Relief and rescue operations were launched immediately after the incident. However, early official confirmation initially reported two deaths, with the number later rising as more information emerged.

Thousands Visit the Temple Every Tuesday

The Sheetla Temple attracts thousands of devotees every Tuesday who come to offer prayers. On this particular Tuesday, the crowd swelled significantly and security arrangements reportedly collapsed under the pressure of the gathering. Amid the heavy rush of devotees, panic broke out for reasons that are still unclear, leading to a stampede inside the temple premises. Authorities are currently investigating the exact cause of the incident. Several ambulances were rushed to the spot after the incident, and the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) also reached the location.

Injured Shifted to Sadar Hospital

Around 10 to 12 devotees were injured in the stampede and have been shifted to the Sadar Hospital for treatment. The temple premises have since been completely evacuated. A large contingent of police personnel has been deployed at the site to manage the situation.

Questions Raised Over Security Arrangements

Notably, the convocation ceremony of Nalanda University is scheduled to take place today in Rajgir. The event is expected to be attended by President Droupadi Murmu and Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, along with Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary. Given the high-profile event in the district on the same day, questions are now being raised over whether security arrangements were diverted, potentially leading to lapses in crowd management at the temple. Authorities are yet to comment on this aspect.

This comes a month after a stampede-like situation reportedly erupted during an event featuring spiritual figure Aniruddhacharya in state's East Champaran. Three people were injured in the commotion that took place at the programme, which was held in Raxaul.