Eight women killed in stampede at Sheetla temple in Bihar’s Nalanda district

Mangalore Today News Network

Nalanda, Mar 31, 2026: At least eight women were killed in a stampede at the Shitala Mata temple in Bihar’s Nalanda district on Tuesday morning.

The tragedy occurred following a heavy rush of devotees at the temple, according to a PTI report quoting a senior police official. Bihar Sharif Assistant Superintendent of Police Noorul Haque said that police and district administration officials rushed to the spot immediately, and rescue operations are underway.

“The exact cause of the stampede is yet to be ascertained, but there was a massive crowd at the temple,” Haque said, adding that he was present at the scene.

Meanwhile, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has announced compensation for the victims’ families. The next of kin of each deceased will receive a total of Rs 6 lakh—Rs 4 lakh from the Disaster Management Department and Rs 2 lakh from the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund.