Russian President Vladimir Putin and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida expressed condolences on Wednesday over the tragic stampede at a religious gathering in Uttar Pradesh, which claimed 126 lives.
"President Putin conveyed sincere condolences to President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the tragic accident in Uttar Pradesh," stated the Russian Embassy in India.
Prime Minister Kishida, in his condolence message, expressed deep sorrow over the loss of many lives in the stampede that occurred in Hathras district.
"I pray for the souls of the victims and extend my deepest condolences to the bereaved families. Wishing speedy recovery to the injured," he added, as per Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The stampede unfolded during a 'satsang' near Phulrai village in Sikandrarau, where thousands had gathered despite restrictions, resulting in a tragic loss of life.
Uttar Pradesh Police filed an FIR against the event's organisers for alleged evidence concealment and violation of crowd limits, with over 2.5 lakh attendees despite permission for only 80,000.